Kambi: Betting ban in Brazil puts sports integrity at risk

Mateo Lenoble, Kambi's Latin America director, said in an interview with iGaming Business that the ban imposed on betting operators in Brazil has slowed progress in the country and damaged trust. According to Lenoble, even if operations restart quickly, this decision will not remove the legal uncertainty.

Because Kambi operates only in regulated markets, it is directly affected by the ban. Lenoble said the interim measure has disrupted the company's projects in the country. He noted that until the measure was published, key clients using the full sportsbook platform were supported until a final decision is reached. He added that those operating only in Brazil suffered more severe harm, while those also active in other countries were able to breathe a little easier.

Lenoble recalled that he discussed the return of operators at length at the SBC Summit in Lisbon. He said Kambi is open to returning under a new regulatory framework and to supporting partners that want to enter or return to the country. Lenoble, who believes the uncertainty will continue for some time, stressed that if a breach of the rules has occurred once in a regulated market, it can happen again.

On sports integrity, he argued that clear rules and strict oversight strengthen the fight against illegal betting and match-fixing. He said that in an unregulated environment bettors turn to illegal platforms, and the enforcement power of the government and the regulator weakens. Kambi is a member of the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) and has its own integrity department.