Originally published at The Crux
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SÃO PAULO – The World Cup has been drawing all the attention in Argentina and Brazil, both South American countries where soccer is a central part of national identity. But the Church is concerned about a collateral phenomenon: Online betting.
In both nations, betting has become a widespread problem over the past few years, attracting millions of people – including the poorest segments of society – and leading them to spend far more money than they can afford.
In both Argentina and Brazil, the bishops have called on the government to take action to protect young people and those who have fallen into debt, but the power of the companies behind these games of chance appears to be too great.
In Argentina, the bishops’ conference has joined forces with several civic organizations that have been calling for state regulation of online betting. Archbishop Gustavo Carrara of La Plata said gambling addiction has become a growing problem, especially among teenagers.
“It’s an addiction that accompanies soccer tournaments,” Carrara told Crux Now.
Father Munir Bracco of the Archdiocese of Córdoba, who addressed the Senate on online betting in late 2025, has warned Argentines that many people will end up more indebted
