
The relationship between Corinthians and its master sponsor, Esportes da Sorte, entered yet another controversial chapter last Friday (17). The AGU (Attorney General of the Union) confirmed that it intends to revoke the injunction that authorizes the national operation of the sportsbook.
When contacted by the ESPN report, the AGU stated that the case is under judicial secrecy. “We also inform you that after sending the subsidies, an appeal will be filed by the AGU”, informed the body.
The decision to seek revocation comes just days after the group gained judicial permission to operate throughout Brazil.
Esportes da Sorte faces difficulties in obtaining a federal license
The controversy began in January, when Minister André Mendonça, of the STF (Supreme Federal Court), banned lottery and electronic gaming companies from operating outside of Rio de Janeiro. Furthermore, the decision vetoed the accreditation of new companies in other regions.
Until then, Esportes da Sorte operated nationally through a license issued by Loterj (Rio de Janeiro State Lottery). With the recent injunction, which will be complied with by the Prizes and Betting Secretariat of the Ministry of Treasury, the company managed to temporarily reverse the restrictions.
Currently, the bookmaker sponsors several football teams. The partnership between Corinthians and Esportes da Sorte began in July 2022, valid for three years. The contract provided for a total investment of R$309 million in the São Paulo club, but with performance targets that could increase this value.
A significant part of this amount, R$57 million, is destined to pay striker Memphis Depay. The sportsbook also played a crucial role in the permanent signing of goalkeeper Hugo Souza, in November 2024.
Recently, Bahia announced the end of its partnership with the betting company. The decision was announced in an official note and Tricolor stated that it is looking for new partnerships for the position of master sponsor.
“ Esporte Clube Bahia SAF announces the amicable termination of the sponsorship contract with Esportes da Sorte. The club is exploring new master sponsorship opportunities and will share more information in due course,” reads the official statement.