The casting of a YouTuber in an Argentine Championship game is under investigation. Juan Rozas, delegate from the Delegation Specializing in betting games in Argentina, finds out why Iván Buhajerick, known as Spreen, played for just one minute at Deportivo Riestra against Vélez Sarsfield, on November 11th.
The sports press reports movement of 48 million pesos (R$277 thousand) in bets, which aroused suspicion. Deportivo Riestra claims that the YouTuber’s presence was a marketing strategy. However, Rozas called four people involved in the match to testify.
This Friday, he will hear from Milton Céliz, captain of Riestra, and Gustavo Fernández, Riestra’s replacement after the start of the game. Next Tuesday, Agustín Bouzat, Vélez’s captain, and Gustavo Quinteros, the team’s coach, will testify, who revealed a phone call from Cristian Fabbiani, Riestra’s coach, days before the game.
According to GE, the investigation is investigating whether there was privileged information for bettors about Spreen’s playing time.
Argentina debates ban on advertising for gambling games
Furthermore, the Argentine Chamber of Deputies is preparing to debate next Wednesday, November 27, the ban on advertising and sponsorship of gambling games. Five opposition blocs came together to support the proposal. Civic Committees, responsible for addressing the harms of gambling, also support the measure.
The Addiction Prevention, Social Action, and other committees collaborate to finalize a new federal bill. The bill aims to nullify state gambling regulations and strengthen the protection of minors.
Recently, Jorge Macri, governor of Buenos Aires, banned new gambling licenses after discovering that 34% of minors participated in gambling. The proposal bans betting logos on sports uniforms and bonuses on online platforms.
The governing coalition, including PRO and La Libertad Avanza, prefers a less restrictive approach. The measures include a ban on sponsorships and payment restrictions, especially the use of gaming credit.
The debate will take place before November 30th, seeking to guarantee voting in time. Approval would represent a significant change in gaming regulation in Argentina.
