Do Clandestino ao Regulado: O Mercado de Apostas Esportivas e os Riscos Ético-Jurídicos à Integridade Esportiva no Brasil

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of the sports betting market in Brazil, focusing on challenges related to match-fixing and sports integrity, using Operation Penalidade Máxima (2023) as a case study. The research addresses the central question: how to balance the economic growth of the betting industry with the preservation of Brazilian football's credibility? Two hypotheses guide the analysis: (i) recent regulations (Law No. 13,756/2018 and Law No. 14,790/2023) have brought progress but still present gaps in combating match-fixing; and (ii) international experience (such as the Calciopoli and Bochum cases) offers insights for more effective public policies. The study is justified by the urgent need to discuss the social and legal impacts of sports betting, especially following the market's rapid expansion in Brazil and corruption scandals in sports. The main objective is to propose measures to ensure sports integrity by combining institutional strengthening, technology, education, and whistleblower protection. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was adopted, including document analysis of laws, jurisprudence, and national and international cases, as well as a literature review of works by authors such as Soares (2019) and Montgomery (2024). The results indicate that, although regulation has provided legal security, challenges such as real-time monitoring and awareness among players and fans persist. The study concludes that collaboration between sports entities, government agencies, and betting operators is essential for a sustainable model that aligns economic development with sports ethics.