Brazil’s first lady Rosângela Lula da Silva, known as Janja, attended a public hearing at the Supreme Federal Court (STF) on Tuesday to discuss a provisional measure that bans online betting companies in Brazil. Businesswoman Paula Lavigne sat beside her in the front row.
The hearing took place before the court’s Second Panel and was called by Justice Luiz Fux. He said Janja had handed him a substantial, detailed report outlining a new perspective on online betting, which he would share with the other justices for consideration during the case.
At the start of the hearing, Fux addressed criticism on social media about its schedule and the participation of football clubs and other organizations that support betting. He said he had held off on ruling during the previous month because of the election period, arguing that judges should be cautious about intervening in political affairs.
Fux said his only ruling on the issue in 2024 was an injunction barring the use of Bolsa Família funds and continuous cash benefits to place bets. He also held a public hearing on the subject that year.
The session examines the effects of Provisional Measure No. 1,394/2026, issued by the federal government to prohibit online betting companies from operating in Brazil. Following a request from the federal government’s legal office, Fux called representatives of the Health Ministry and the Ministry of Justice and Public Security to take part.
Sources: Folha Mercado.