Lawmakers in Mexico are considering a ban on gambling advertising throughout the 39-day 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins June 11, 2026 and includes the opening match on Mexican soil.
The proposal is led by Jericó Abramo Masso, a member of the Mexican Chamber of Deputies. He has drafted legislation that would introduce tighter controls on promotional activity tied to sporting events broadcast on free-to-air and pay television.
Matches during the tournament have already been scheduled through June 27, with broadcasts in Mexico set between midday and midnight local time. Under the bill, operators would be permitted to advertise only between 10:30 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., limiting exposure during most live match coverage.
Masso said the initiative follows an increase in complaints from parents who report that children are exposed to gambling promotions embedded in sports programming. He stated that such advertisements present “false narratives about gaining quick wealth.”
In addition to television restrictions, the proposal seeks to apply limits to digital platforms. Masso argues that extending controls online would add a layer of protection for individuals under 18.
The bill is currently before the Board of Directors of the Chamber of Deputies and is pending committee approval before moving to Congress for a final vote.
Current legislation requires gambling advertisements to receive prior authorization from the Secretariat of the Interior (SEGOB) before airing on television. Operators must also comply with rules requiring responsible gambling messaging and prohibiting content that promotes excessive participation.
The renewed debate over advertising rules comes while federal authorities review the country’s gambling framework. The governing MORENA party has acknowledged betting integrity concerns under the Federal Gaming and Lottery Law of 1947, which has been in place for nearly a century.
SEGOB had convened working groups to examine proposals to overhaul federal gambling laws. The process was later interrupted when President Claudia Sheinbaum initiated negotiations on a new tax plan.
Under the 2026 budget plan, the MORENA government approved an increase in the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) applied to gambling, raising the rate from 30% to 50% of gaming turnover. The increase forms part of a package described by the government as “sin taxes on alcohol, tobacco, gambling and high sugar foods.”
MORENA has stated that it intends to present a bill to replace the 1947 statute before the World Cup for congressional consideration. No update on that draft legislation has been provided in 2026 so far.
Mexico will host matches alongside the United States and Canada during the 39-day tournament, placing domestic advertising rules under scrutiny before the event begins.
Original article: https://www.yogonet.com/international/news/2026/02/23/117722-mexico-considers-restrictions-on-gambling-ads-during-2026-fifa-world-cup-broadcasts
