Brazil’s Lula promotes popular betting ban within days of tight election
Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has announced a ban on online gambling platforms just days before the first round of presidential elections. The crackdown, which aims to curb the country's estimated 2 million gambling addicts, has sparked controversy among soccer clubs who rely on sponsorship deals from betting companies.
Despite Lula's support for the ban from some supporters of his rival, Flávio Bolsonaro, the move may still be challenged in court. The government claims they have removed 506 websites, but the measure requires congressional approval within 120 days to remain effective. With millions of Brazilians reportedly using online betting services, there are concerns about the potential economic and mental health impacts of the ban ahead of the tightly contested election.
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