Bookmaker BetFla Fined in Brazil for Illegal Use of Flamengo’s Trademarks

The bookmaker BetFla has been found guilty by a Rio de Janeiro court of unlawfully using the intellectual property of football club Flamengo, reports SBC Noticias.

According to the ruling, the operator misled consumers by creating a false impression of an official partnership with the club. BetFla illegally used Flamengo’s signature colors — red and black —, the word “Fla” (a well-known abbreviation of Flamengo), as well as the team’s mascot, the urubu bird.

The judge also noted the company’s slogan, “The bookmaker of the red-and-black team”, which further reinforced the illusion of a formal link with Flamengo.

The court described BetFla’s actions as “parasitic behavior”, emphasizing that the operator profited from the club’s reputation while shifting all reputational risks onto Flamengo.

Court ruling summary:

• Total ban. BetFla must immediately cease using Flamengo’s name, symbols, and any related domain names.
• Fine. The company is ordered to pay 50,000 reals (approx. RUB 760,000) for moral damages.
• Compensation. The amount of material damages will be determined in the next phase of enforcement.
• Penalty. A daily fine of 50,000 reals will apply for each day of non-compliance.

It is noteworthy, as Gambling Park points out, that Flamengo previously operated its own licensed betting brand, Flabet, in partnership with Pixbet. The similarity between the names Flabet and BetFla could also have misled some fans.