The first head-to-head debate between Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his opponent Flávio Bolsonaro was held on October 18, but notably, the candidates did not address the issue of a betting ban. This debate occurred shortly after police requested the Supreme Court to investigate Flávio Bolsonaro due to alleged connections with a lawyer believed to be controlling Rede Loto, which had recently made headlines. On May 25, 2023, Rede Loto signed contract 001/2023 with the Rio de Janeiro state lottery, Loterj, and became the first company accredited to offer sports betting prior to the federal licensing framework taking effect.
The debate primarily revolved around allegations of corruption, public security, and healthcare concerns. Lula pressed Flávio for details about an alleged request for R$134 million from banker Daniel Vorcaro to fund the film Dark Horse, which focuses on Flávio’s father, former President Jair Bolsonaro. In response, Flávio questioned Lula about his ties with lobbyist Roberta Luchsinger. Both candidates were also called to disclose their financial and telephone records prior to the voting.
Despite prior arrangements for Lula's associates to question Flávio regarding the gaming ban and his relationship with attorney Willer Tomaz, the topic was not raised during the debate. Lula missed the chance to address this issue during his interview on TV Globo, where he discussed family debts instead.
The Federal Police's request for an investigation into Flávio Bolsonaro primarily focuses on allegations of money laundering connected to Tomaz. This inquiry, which is being overseen by Justice Alexandre de Moraes, comes after the police uncovered significant evidence linking Flávio to Tomaz, including payment records for flights. One of Tomaz's bank accounts reportedly showed transactions totaling R$130 million from March to May 2025.
Looking ahead, the final debates are scheduled for October 23, with Flávio required to confirm his participation by October 19. The runoff election will take place on October 25, coinciding with the expiration of federal betting licenses. A Datafolha poll conducted on October 15 indicated Flávio leading with 51% of valid votes compared to Lula's 49%.
