The Constitution and Justice Committee of the Chamber of Deputies approved Bill 515/2023, proposed by deputy Bandeira de Mello. Thus, this project modifies the Supporter Statute (Law 10,671/03). The objective is to increase the penalty for sports professionals who are involved in match-fixing.
To come into force, the text must still pass the Plenary of the Federal Chamber and Senate.
Increased penalties for match manipulation
According to the Fan Statute, fraud in the results of games or sporting events is punishable by imprisonment for two to six years, in addition to a fine. The new project increases the penalty by 1/3 to half for professionals such as athletes, referees, managers, assistants and video referees.
Bandeira de Mello emphasized that the proposal does not aim to criminalize players and referees indiscriminately. The focus is to remember the power of influence that these professionals have and, if there is misconduct, apply strict sanctions.
“The objective of the proposal is not to criminalize players and referees, but to remember the power of influence and decision they have during matches, and in case of misconduct, to criminalize such conduct.
We cannot help but remember the case that became known as “Mafia do Apito”, which was the name given to the scheme of manipulating the results of matches valid for the Campeonato Brasileiro and Campeonato Paulista, both held in the 2005 season”.
FIFA rules and the importance of the measure
FIFA has strict rules that prohibit players, referees and agents from getting involved in betting. Furthermore, regulations prohibit any direct connection between these professionals and betting companies and the sharing of information that could favor bettors.
Failure to comply with these rules may result in punishments such as suspension of up to three years and fines. Deputy Bandeira de Mello emphasizes that society must respect football as an important driver of public policies, in addition to seeing it as a sport and entertainment.
“Although match manipulation is neither new nor exclusive to Brazil, it is essential to act to implement significant legislative changes, including stricter sanctions to further enhance football,” concluded Bandeira.
