Brazilian Federal Government announces new National Secretary for sports betting

Júlia Moura September 3, 2024

The Federal Government in Brazil has appointed Giovanni Rocco as the new National Secretary for Sports Betting and Sports Economic Development. His appointment was officially published in the Federal Gazette.

In his new role, Rocco’s primary focus will be to ensure that sports betting is regarded as a form of entertainment rather than a source of income. “It is crucial that betting is seen as entertainment, much like football or other sports. We must distinguish and control this practice, fulfilling the oversight and regulatory role assigned to us,” Rocco stated. Giovanni Rocco, an experienced lawyer with a degree in Law and a postgraduate qualification in Political Science, will lead the new secretariat with the mission to oversee and ensure that sports betting is conducted fairly and securely. Additionally, he will be tasked with promoting the growth of the sports market in the country, ensuring that all forms of sport receive the necessary resources and infrastructure. Rocco has held key positions in both the Legislative and Executive branches, including serving as president of the Association for the Defense of Integrity, Rights, and Duties in Gaming and Betting. In this role, he played a crucial part in drafting the laws regulating sports betting in Brazil. His background also includes leadership roles at institutions such as Abitily Government Relations and the Intermunicipal Consortium of Greater ABC, as well as experience in the Chamber of Deputies and the São Bernardo do Campo City Hall. The Minister of Sports, André Fufuca, emphasised the importance of for the success of the new secretariat. “Giovanni has all the qualifications necessary for this position. Our structure, established within the Ministry, will monitor and regulate this new sports activity with full transparency, as expected by the public,” Fufuca stated.

Rocco’s appointment has also been well received by the National Association of Gaming and Lotteries (ANJL). The association praised the government’s commitment to maintaining a responsible and integrity-driven betting market. “We are confident that Rocco’s arrival will strengthen the ongoing efforts by operators and the government to ensure a secure and regulated betting environment,” said Plínio Lemos Jorge, president of ANJL.

The new secretariat will work closely with the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Attorney General to ensure the integrity of sports betting in the country. While the Ministry of Finance will handle areas such as lotteries and sweepstakes, the National Secretariat for Sports Betting will be responsible for overseeing bets, ensuring that sporting events and outcomes remain fair and unpredictable.