Cruzeiro announces Betnacional as main sponsor for 2026

Cruzeiro Esporte Clube confirmed that Betnacional, owned by Flutter Brazil, will become the club’s main sponsor starting in 2026.

Betnacional will emphasize its Brazilian roots and connection to football culture, while Betfair will remain active in Brazil, focusing on its global betting technology and Exchange platform, the Games Magazine Brasil reported.

The sponsorship switch was unveiled during the 37th round of the 2025 Brazilian Championship, in the Cruzeiro vs. Botafogo match at Mineirão. Cruzeiro players wore Betfair-branded jerseys in the first half, then returned to the field in the second half wearing Betnacional branding—a first in Brazilian sports.

Betfair has been Cruzeiro’s main sponsor since January 2023. During this period, the brand supported campaigns like the “Caravana do Cruzeiro” across Minas Gerais, backed social initiatives such as the Racial Observatory by giving up youth team jersey space for the NGO, and celebrated fans through the “Betfera of the Month” program.

Betnacional’s sponsorship is expected to continue celebrating Cruzeiro’s fanbase, now with a local brand deeply rooted in Brazilian football culture. 

“Betfair has built a history marked by important activations and positive impact that generates strong media and fan engagement, and now Betnacional arrives to deepen this relationship with an even more local approach,” said Jorge Peixoto, Flutter Brazil’s Head of Brand Experience. “Betfair will continue with its global excellence, while Betnacional carries the identity and sentiment of the Brazilian fan.”

Flutter Brazil confirmed that the transition will be structured and will preserve the group’s commitment to Cruzeiro and operational integrity.

Betfair is a global sports betting leader, operating in 19 countries and offering both peer-to-peer betting and a wide range of online gaming products. Betnacional is a Brazilian-focused betting brand that sponsors major events such as Big Brother Brasil 2025, the Rio Open, Lollapalooza, and works with prominent sports figures. Meanwhile, Flutter Brazil combines global technology and expertise with local market knowledge to deliver a strong presence in the country.