Brazil officially recognized esports as a sporting activity via decree no. 13.138 signed by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on October 14, 2026. Articles 20 and 21 define esports as competitive sporting activity taking place individually or in teams under established rules. Organizations can now integrate into the National Sports System and participate in state initiatives for player development and tournament support.

Ministry of Sports esports director Kadu Albuquerque noted the limits of the new legislation regarding financial backing.

“recognition doesn’t automatically mean getting state funding,” Kadu Albuquerque stated.

Publisher rights, including those of Riot Games and Ubisoft, remain protected, and commercial tournament organizers retain control over formats and calendars.

The new framework opens opportunities for collaboration with state institutions regarding youth training, gender equality, and combatting match-fixing.