In an exclusive conversation with iGaming Business, Kambi’s director for Latin America, Mateo Lenoble, expressed concerns regarding the recent ban on betting operators in Brazil, highlighting its negative impact on progress and public trust in the country. Lenoble pointed out that even if betting operations were to resume quickly, the legal uncertainties stemming from this prohibition would persist, thereby threatening the integrity of sports.
He emphasized the importance of regulation, stating that a lack of clear guidelines not only endangers the integrity of sporting events but also makes it difficult to combat illegal gambling and match-fixing. In a non-regulated environment, he noted, bettors often turn to unregulated platforms, which undermines governmental authority and increases risks associated with gambling.
When discussing the effects of the betting ban on Kambi’s aspirations in Brazil, Lenoble said, "This certainly affects us, as we only work in regulated markets. The provisional measure that banned betting in Brazil is causing disruption to the projects we had been developing in the country."
He also indicated that even if betting activities were to resume, uncertainties regarding investment in Brazil would likely endure. During the SBC Summit in Lisbon, he elaborated on the attractive nature of the Brazilian market, admitting that Kambi is open to re-entering the country under a new regulatory framework.
Lenoble stated, "I believe that uncertainty surrounding the country will persist for some time. If a violation of the rules of a regulated market could occur once, it could potentially happen again."
While acknowledging Kambi’s current limited partnerships in the region, he confirmed their significance. Key clients, affected by the provisional ban, used Kambi’s full sports betting platform prior to the enactment of the measure. He noted, "We are supporting each of them until a final decision is reached. Some are suffering even more, as they operate only in the country, while others operate in other jurisdictions and still have some breathing room. We want to continue investing in and developing the Brazilian market, but only time will tell how this will happen."
Regarding concerns over match-fixing due to the cessation of betting, Lenoble reiterated that regulated markets are essential for maintaining sporting integrity. He remarked, "Only in a regulated market with clear rules can these practices be combated."
Kambi collaborates with various global organizations to address match-fixing, and Lenoble mentioned participation in the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) and their own integrity department dedicated to safeguarding clients. He asserted, "We do very serious work in this area to ensure that our clients offer their bettors the best and safest sports betting options."
Lenoble concluded that the migration of gamblers to the illegal market as a result of the betting ban poses threats to the integrity of sports. He stated categorically that a regulated sector with clear rules simplifies the fight against illegal gambling, emphasizing that without proper oversight, the necessary protective measures cannot be implemented, thereby compromising the integrity of sports.
