CPI DAS BETS: See next steps after testimonials by Virginia and Rico Melquíades

The Senate Bets Parliamentary Commission (CPI) prepares for a new phase of investigations, focusing on calling more digital influencers and entrepreneurs who work in the online betting market. The commission, whose objective is to investigate the impact of gambling and the possible connection with criminal organizations, should define priorities for the last month of work.

The CPI returned to the spotlight after the testimonials of influencer Virginia Fonseca, who attended the Senate on Tuesday (13) and refused to reveal the gains she got with advertising for online bets. Rich Melquíades, in his statement on Wednesday (14), showed discomfort with the senators approach and even accessed a betting platform in the middle of the session.

Influencers and celebrities in the target

The behavior of influencers during the testimonials caused reactions among CPI members, who decided to deepen the investigation into the use of public figures in promoting gambling, especially on digital platforms.

The president of CPI, Senator Dr. Hiran Gonçalves (PP-RR), said that the board will deliberate in the coming weeks about new calls. There are already requests for the commission to draw influencers and celebrities who have promoted online games. Among them are names like:

• Jojo Todynho (influencer)
• Gkay (influencer)
• VIIH TUBE (influencer)
• Eliezer do Carmo (influencer)
• Gusttavo Lima (singer)
• Wesley Safadão (singer)
• Tirulipa (humorist)

Entrepreneurs and money laundering

In addition to the influencers, senators want to hear businessmen who operate directly in the online betting sector. The goal is to clarify how these platforms work, how they are funded and if there is a connection with money laundering practices. The concern of parliamentarians increased after a survey by the Datasenado Institute, which revealed that 58% of bets gamblers had overdue debts for over 90 days.

“CPI is not just about influencers. It is about understanding the entire online betting ecosystem and protecting Brazilians, especially the most vulnerable,” said Senator Dr. Hiran Gonçalves.

Advertising Regulation

Another point that is expected to gain prominence in the coming weeks is the discussion about the regulation of online betting advertising, especially when promoted by digital influencers. The CPI intends to formulate a proposal to establish more rigid rules for this type of disclosure, protecting consumers.

“The idea is to ensure that the advertising of gambling of unlucky ethical patterns and that the public is properly informed about the risks involved,” said Senator Soraya Thronicke (União-MS), rapporteur of the commission.

When the CPI ends?

BETS CPI is expected to be closing on June 14, 2025. However, the possibility of extension is considered remote by the members of the commission. President Dr. Hiran Gonçalves stated that, by the end of the work, the Commission will seek to produce a conclusive report that can serve as a basis for future regulations.

“CPI of Bets is not just an investigation, it is an opportunity to create a regulatory framework that protects the citizen and bring more transparency to the online betting sector,” concluded the president.