Loterj grants Rio Jogo operator licence

Gambling in Brazil
Rio Jogo has been approved in the Loterj accreditation notice, allowing them to get a licence. This is in preparation for the debut of Brazil's regulated sports betting and igaming sector.

Loterj has authorised Rio Jogo as their fifth operator, joining PixBet and BestBet. Caesars Sportsbook and PNR Tecnologia are two of seven operators that are presently undergoing accreditation.

The chief executive of Rio Jogo, João Victor de Araújo Souza, expressed gratitude to Loterj for their efforts in establishing betting accreditation in Brazil.

The CEO firmly believes in the legality of a controlled gambling market. "We have read the contract and understand our obligations; furthermore, we promise that we are well-equipped to complete the project successfully."

Despite opposition from the IBJR, Loterj awards Rio Jogo a permit.
Just after Rio Jogo got its licence, Loterj said it would be reopening the accreditation window for betting houses. Beginning on Tuesday, May 14th, the accreditation period will continue for 30 days.

Lema and PNR Tecnologia submitted their applications for Loterj certification to run igaming and sports betting in April. The two businesses tested the idea and made sure it complied with Loterj rules.

After BIG Brazil, which is licensed by Caesars Sportsbook, announced its plan to apply for Loterj accreditation, that development occurred.

Loterj is seeking to issue licenses for nationwide operations, which has drawn criticism from people who think it is going too far.

Loterj was slammed in a letter by the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming (IBJR). A "clear violation" of federal regulations, according to the IBJR, is Loterj's accreditation of nationwide operations.

"The actions taken by Loterj cause chaos, sow needless uncertainties, and damage the effort to regulate Brazil's fixed-odds betting industry," the IBJR letter said.

André Santa Ritta, an associate lawyer at Pinheiro Neto Advogados, concurs with the IBJR that their criticisms are well-founded.

According to Santa Ritta, "IBJR does have a point and their arguments make sense" (iGB, email, 26 July 2018). "I have participated in these discussions personally. In my opinion, Loterj lacks the authority to provide businesses nationwide operating licenses.