GMB - How was the SBC Summit Rio 2025 going for Sportradar?
Felippe Marchetti - It was a very important event for the industry, bringing together several relevant players and discussing issues that go beyond the sector, such as integrity in sports, which is fundamental. The industry has a significant role in this, helping to protect sports in general here in Brazil.
Brazil has left the ranking of leader in match-fixing after two years. What is the reason for this 48% drop?
Several factors contributed to this reduction. First, there was an increase in the monitoring of games. Today, in addition to the CBF, we work with 17 state federations, providing the most complete reports available.
This certainly scares away match-fixers, because, as with any type of crime, they look for opportunities where there is less visibility and monitoring. By expanding this coverage, we create a safer environment.
Another important point is education. Sportradar works with 13 state federations in this area and, last year, we worked with clubs such as Palmeiras and Atlético.
We bring knowledge to athletes, not to dictate rules, but to make them aware of how to act if they are approached by match-fixers, the risks involved, not only of punishment, but also on a personal level, and how to protect themselves from match-fixing. This is a fundamental way to increase security in Brazil.
What do you think of bookmakers supporting federations in combating match-fixing?
I believe it goes beyond a noble gesture; it is a moral obligation. Operators are part of this ecosystem and also lose out when there is manipulation. They can help sports entities combat the problem not only by organizing events and debates, which often fall into clichés, but also with practical actions.
Based on this, last year we created the "Integrity Partner" project, where operators finance monitoring for state federations. We have both Reductitado and NGX as partners of 12 federations in Brazil. In addition, operators such as Esportes da Sorte and Estrela Bet are offering workshops for the clubs they sponsor, contributing to the construction of a healthier ecosystem.
This includes not only the professional, but also the youth categories, educating young people on issues that go beyond manipulation, such as "inside information". This occurs when a player shares with his wife, friend or neighbor some behind-the-scenes information that can be used for betting and, in the end, can turn against him.
Showing players that "inside information" is also harmful and providing this education in a holistic and comprehensive manner is everyone's role.
Last year, you were giving education courses at several clubs in Brazil, such as Atlético and Palmeiras. What will be the next ones?
Next month, we will be at Criciúma, in a contract we signed with Esportes da Sorte, as well as Corinthians and Ceará. Other structured operators present at the fair liked this concept and our idea is to expand, trying to provide these educational concepts to as many clubs in Brazil as possible.
Why does Sportradar say that education is essential in combating match-fixing?
Raising awareness among the population is the first step to correcting a problem like this. Educating the industry as a whole, especially athletes, whose image is at stake, is essential to changing the scenario in Brazil and reducing these numbers even further.
What innovation or product did you bring to the event?
Yes, we brought a new product, mainly for operators, which is a responsible gaming platform. With it, operators can identify which bettors are most prone to addiction, both in casinos and in sports betting.
Based on a tool developed in partnership with the University of Neuchâtel, in Switzerland, it is possible to send responsible gaming messages and limit the screen time of these bettors. This complies with the requirements of the Ministry of Finance and helps to build a sustainable ecosystem in the long term for the industry as a whole.
How do you analyze this beginning of regulated Brazil? And what is the future of the iGaming and sports betting market in this context?
I see a market where operators will feel more comfortable investing in integrity, assisting and sharing information, since they are now in a regulated and secure market, and can share data legally.
I also see a greater commitment to the sustainability of the industry as a whole. There was a very high investment to enter the Brazilian market and protecting the ecosystem is in everyone's interest.
Will there be a lot of work this year, then?
Of course, but it's work that pays off at the end of the day, because we're doing good for the sport, which is part of the country's cultural heritage, and, from that, we're also giving something back to society.
Source: Exclusive GMB
