On Monday, April 7th, the Brazilian Ministry of Sports published Ordinance MESP nº 31/2025, which sets forth the regulatory framework for the oversight of websites operated by entities authorized to offer fixed-odds betting on sporting events.
This measure continues the regulatory process initiated by Ordinance MESP nº 125/2024 – which defined the types of sports and sports entities eligible for betting – and reinforces the joint supervisory role of the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Finance through the Secretariat for Prizes and Betting (SPA).
The new regulation establishes that periodic oversight of the websites will be conducted by a technical team coordinated by the Directorate for Monitoring and Evaluation of Sports Betting, which is part of the National Secretariat for Sports Betting and Economic Development in Sports.
Among the criteria to be assessed during inspections are:
1. Brand Compliance: verification that the commercial brand displayed on the website corresponds to the brand registered with the SPA;
2. Compliance with Authorized Sports Modalities: all sports modalities offered for betting must fall within those listed in Ordinance MESP nº 125/2024;
3. Prevention of Legal Violations: the inspections will also address other potential breaches of applicable legislation, such as the offering of prohibited bets and the lack of effective mechanisms to prevent the participation of minors.
If any irregularities are identified, the technical team will prepare a non-compliance report, which will be forwarded to the SPA for appropriate action.
The regulation also provides for the technical support of other directorates within the Ministry of Sports and authorizes the development of a dedicated platform to safeguard the integrity of sports betting operations. This platform may be developed in partnership with public entities, universities, technology companies, and others.
This new ordinance underscores the federal government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of sports betting in Brazil. It represents not only a compliance challenge but also a strategic opportunity: adherence to legal requirements is a critical factor for both continued operation and sustainable expansion in the national market.
