In a recent interview, Mateo Lenoble, Kambi's director for Latin America, expressed deep concerns over the ban on betting operators in Brazil, stating that it stalls progress and diminishes confidence in the market. He pointed out that even if operations were to resume swiftly, the legal ambiguity caused by the prohibition would linger. Lenoble stressed that the lack of clear regulations jeopardizes the integrity of sports.
He emphasized that effective oversight and strict regulations are essential for combating illegal gambling and match-fixing. Without a proper framework, many bettors are likely to turn to unregulated platforms, diminishing the government's control and increasing potential risks.
When asked about how the ban affects Kambi's ambitions in Brazil, Lenoble acknowledged that it indeed influences their endeavors since the company operates only in regulated markets. The abrupt prohibition has disrupted their ongoing projects in the country.
Addressing the prospect of returning to the Brazilian market, Lenoble maintained that Kambi remains open to reinvesting if a new regulatory framework is established. However, he cautioned that uncertainty would likely persist, which could discourage new investments.
Despite having a limited number of partner operators in Brazil, Lenoble noted their significance to Kambi. Some clients had relied on Kambi's full sports betting platform prior to the ban, and they are currently distressed by its implementation. Kambi is providing support during this uncertain period, but the future of investments hinges on how the situation unfolds.
Regarding sports integrity, Lenoble asserted that a regulated market effectively combats match-fixing and assures the integrity of sports. He reiterated Kambi's longstanding advocacy for regulation, stressing it as vital for addressing such issues.
Kambi collaborates with various global organizations in the fight against match-fixing and is a member of the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA). In addition, the company has an integrity department dedicated to safeguarding clients and ensuring they provide secure betting options.
Lenoble warned that the current ban could lead gamblers to illegal markets, which would compromise the integrity of sports. He reiterated that a regulated environment with explicit rules makes it easier to mitigate illegal gambling, underscoring that without regulation, oversight diminishes, and essential safeguards cannot be implemented.
Through this lens, the impact of Brazil's betting ban on integrity in sports becomes starkly clear.
