Formula 1 champion Rubens Barrichello and soccer legends will take part in BiS SiGMA South America 2026, which starts tomorrow. Uniquely bringing together sports legends, technology innovators and regulatory leaders, the event marks an important moment for Brazil’s digital economy following the launch of online betting regulation in 2025.
Held from April 7th to 9th at the Transamerica Expo Center, the event stands out for bringing together different stakeholders at a time when Brazil is moving from a fragmented market to a regulated ecosystem that attracts global operators, investments and innovation.
At the opening ceremony, welcome speeches will be given by Eman Pulis, founder of SiGMA Group, as well as Alessandro Valente and Carlos Cardama, co-founders of BiS – Brazilian iGaming Summit.
Brazil in the new geography of the digital economy
With more than 200 million inhabitants and strong digital adoption, Brazil is becoming a strategic global market for the digital economy.
This growth goes beyond betting and encompasses a broader ecosystem, including:
- digital platforms
- fintechs and payment systems
- gaming and eSports
- online entertainment
The summit connects more than 18,000 participants, 400 companies and 250 speakers, offering a unique platform for international collaboration and innovation aligned with the evolution of the Brazilian digital economy.
Economic impact of BiS SiGMA South America 2026
Estimates indicate that the event should generate approximately R$179 million in economic impact in 2026, directly benefiting sectors such as hospitality, services and the local economy.
By 2030, projections point to growth between R$240 million and R$286 million, reaching R$730 million in more optimistic scenarios.
São Paulo continues to strengthen its role as one of the main economic and technological hubs in Latin America.
Regulation, growth and responsibility
The sector’s growth brings new regulatory challenges as Brazil structures a legal and sustainable market. Institutions and sector stakeholders will discuss:
- the balance between economic growth and consumer protection
- combating illegal gambling
- sustainability and social responsibility
- maintaining a competitive tax environment
Sport, eSports and entertainment: a convergent ecosystem
One of the central themes of the summit is the convergence between sport, entertainment and technology.
The sector is undergoing transformation, reshaping the way the public interacts with content and business models in traditional sports, eSports, digital platforms and interactive media.
Sports figures: from global football to a new generation
In addition to motorsport, the event will feature big names in international and South American football, including:
- Diego Lugano – Former Uruguay captain, known for his leadership and defensive strength in South America and Europe
- Vampeta – 2002 World Cup champion with Brazil and notable figure for Corinthians
- Luizão – 2002 world champion striker, known for decisive goals
- Müller – 1994 World Cup champion and highlight of Brazilian football in the 90s
- Aloísio Chulapa – world club champion with São Paulo in 2005, known for his charisma on and off the field
- Zinho – FIFA World Cup winner
- Falcão – world futsal reference and multiple winner of the best player in the world award
UFC fighter Carlos Prates, rising on the global mixed martial arts scene, will also participate in the event.
The presence of athletes from different modalities reinforces the transformation of sport into a global platform for entertainment, content and digital engagement.
How the event reflects global change
BiS SiGMA South America brings together technology, finance, entertainment, sport and media in an integrated environment, becoming the only event in the region dedicated to the interconnected digital ecosystem.
- finance
- entertainment
- sport
- media
In this context, Brazil positions itself as a key market for the future of the global digital economy.
What media access and programming will be provided – April 7
- 11:00 – 11:15 Press accreditation
- 11:30 Opening ceremony
- 11:55 Official ribbon cutting with Rubens Barrichello
About SiGMA
SiGMA Group is a global media and events company for the gaming, emerging technology and affiliate marketing sectors. Its platform is focused on regulation, education and innovation.
Since its inception in 2014, SiGMA has quickly evolved from a small, niche event to a global powerhouse. The brand redefined itself through rebranding initiatives, strategic acquisitions and the establishment of new pillars, such as the SiGMA Foundation, Business-to-government and SiGMA Play.
The SiGMA Group currently holds eight international summits, in addition to more than 100 auxiliary networking events annually – including poker tournaments, retreats and iGatherings. SiGMA Group’s global presence is supported by offices in: Malta, Limassol, Belgrade, Yerevan, São Paulo and Manila.
