Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court (STF) set 3 November as a deadline for a public hearing to examine the betting ban under Provisional Measure 1.394/2026.
The hearing was set in response of a legal challenge filed by industry associations ANJL and IBJR to suspend the measure. During the sessions there will be 26 participants from government representatives, football clubs, industry associations and the Brazilian Football Confederation.
Justice Luiz Fux set the hearing date. Fux has previously expressed concerns about gambling-related harm. In August, he voted voted to uphold a law criminalizing the operation of games of chance in a separate case, citing concerns about public order and health.
The hearing’s format and specific topics have not yet been announced.
The court has not issued an injunction suspending the ban. Meanwhile, Congress must decide the provisional measure’s fate by 23 November.
Industry associations ANJL and IBJR filed the challenge shortly after President Lula introduced the measure. Their main goal is to restore the previous regulatory framework or secure a transition period for licensed operators.
The final responsibility to review the measure is on Congress. The measure is due to begin blocking other legislative votes on 9 November. Its initial 60-day period ends on 23 November, although it can be extended automatically, potentially keeping it in force into 2027.
The outcome of the 3 November hearing could help shape the next stage of the legal challenge, but no fixed deadline has been set for Fux to rule on the requested injunction.
