“Many foreign executives still have doubts about the stability and predictability of Brazil’s regulatory process"

One of the first Brazilian companies to become an associate member of the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA) — the global body dedicated to promoting integrity in regulated sports betting — EstrelaBet has consolidated its position as one of the leading operators in Brazil’s betting market.

In 2025, the company focused on adapting to the new regulatory environment, strengthening governance and compliance, and sustaining an aggressive commercial strategy.

As Chief Business Officer (CBO) and head of Institutional Relations (IR), and an active presence on platforms such as LinkedIn, with opinion pieces published in the press, Fellipe Fraga has played a prominent role at iGaming industry events in Brazil and abroad. He is widely regarded as one of the most respected voices in the Brazilian betting sector.

In this exclusive interview, he shares his experience with Yogonet readers.

You have been very active in events, panels and webinars. What are your main observations on the direction of the betting sector in Brazil and globally over the coming year?

Fortunately, I have had many opportunities to present not only my own perspective, but also EstrelaBet’s position at events, panels and broader industry discussions.

This exchange of views is essential, as it allows relevant topics to be debated and lessons to be drawn from different perspectives. What I see is that the sector, both in Brazil and internationally, has been moving towards an increasingly coordinated approach. There is now a collective drive to build a solid and sustainable regulated market, capable of tackling the illegal market effectively.

This shared vision is what lays the foundations for a future marked by greater security, responsibility and innovation.

To what do you attribute your recognition as C-Level of the Year at the BiS Awards 2025?

Receiving the C-Level of the Year award at the BiS Awards 2025 was a source of great joy and pride. This recognition was only possible through God’s grace, the constant support of my family, and the tireless work of all my colleagues at EstrelaBet.

I believe my role in fostering dialogue between operators and suppliers — building bridges and strengthening connections — contributed significantly to this result. In addition, EstrelaBet’s progress throughout 2024, which I regard as one of the most transformative years in preparation for regulation, also played a decisive role. Starting 2025 with this achievement reflects the collective effort we have invested in raising the standards of the sector.

How do you and EstrelaBet assess the first year of regulation in the country? What challenges still need to be addressed?

The first year of regulation represented a crucial period of consolidation and adaptation. Operations have evolved considerably, and consumers now benefit from a safer, more transparent environment aligned with recognised market best practices.

We have also made meaningful progress in promoting responsible gaming, which is a fundamental pillar for the credibility and long-term sustainability of the sector. Significant challenges remain, particularly when it comes to raising awareness among public opinion, the press and policymakers about the importance of strengthening the fight against the illegal market.

A strong regulated sector depends directly on a competitive environment that protects consumers and provides companies with the conditions needed to operate responsibly and innovate.

Based on your participation in international events, how do foreign executives perceive Brazil and its regulatory process?

From my participation in international events, it is clear that Brazil continues to attract strong interest, mainly due to the enormous potential of its market.

At the same time, many foreign executives still express doubts about the stability and predictability of the regulatory process. This ultimately affects the appetite of operators and suppliers who could otherwise invest more heavily in the country.

Brazil has all the conditions to become a global benchmark, and this potential will be realised as we continue to advance in terms of legal certainty and regulatory clarity.

The new institutional campaign “Vai pra cima” marks a new phase for EstrelaBet. What can we expect from the company in 2026?

The institutional campaign “Vai pra cima” reinforces our identity as a brand that values courage, attitude and positive energy, always guided by responsibility and a commitment to quality entertainment.

Looking ahead to 2026, the public can expect an increasingly modern and mature company, closely aligned with consumer needs. We will continue to invest in technology, innovation, user experience and initiatives that strengthen our commitments to safety and responsible gaming.

Our goal is to consolidate our presence in Brazil and continue contributing actively to the development of the regulated betting sector.