Mateo Lenoble, Kambi's director for Latin America, conveyed serious concerns about the ongoing ban on betting operators in Brazil during an exclusive interview with iGaming Business. He argued that this prohibition is not only obstructing progress in the gambling sector but is also eroding confidence in the integrity of sports within the country.
Lenoble emphasized that even if betting activities were to resume quickly, the legal uncertainty resulting from the ban would persist, leaving the landscape unclear for future investments. He pointed out that without a stable regulatory environment, there is a heightened risk to sporting integrity as bettors are likely to turn to unregulated, clandestine platforms. This shift undermines the authorities' capabilities to manage and safeguard sports effectively.
Addressing the impact of the ban on Kambi's growth strategies in Brazil, Lenoble acknowledged that it has disrupted the projects the company had been developing. He stated, “This certainly affects us, as we only work in regulated markets.”
When discussing potential future investments should the suspension be lifted, Lenoble expressed optimism about the Brazilian market's attractiveness, considering it one of the largest globally. However, he cautioned that uncertainty would likely linger, warning, “If a violation of the rules of a regulated market could occur once, it could potentially happen again.”
On the relevance of Kambi's partner operators in Brazil, Lenoble noted that while the number is limited, their significance is considerable. "We have key clients in the country who, until the advent of the provisional measure, utilized our complete sports betting platform. They are currently facing challenges due to the enforcement of this measure, and we are providing support until a final decision is reached. Some clients are affected more severely, operating solely within Brazil, while others have a presence in various jurisdictions. We wish to keep investing in Brazil, but the timeline remains uncertain."
Regarding the potential for increased match-fixing due to the lack of betting, Lenoble stated, “The regulated market helps combat match-fixing and ensure sporting integrity.” He reiterated Kambi’s stance on the essential nature of regulation, advocating that clear rules are critical for preventing such malpractices.
Kambi, in collaboration with significant global partners, aims to combat match-fixing and is a member of the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA). Lenoble highlighted their rigorous integrity department’s role in safeguarding clients and ensuring that they provide the most reliable betting options available.
He concluded by reiterating the dangers posed by the illegal market, stating that a lack of regulation diminishes the government's power to oversee the gambling landscape, significantly increasing risks to sports integrity.
— Mateo Lenoble, Kambi Latin America Director
