Peruvian gambling regulatory authority experiences leadership change; E. Sevilla steps down as its head.
Peru's Updated Gambling Law Falls Short on Sports Betting Manipulation Concerns
In a surprising turn of events, the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF) has yet to initiate an inquiry into the concerns raised by Safap, the Association of Professional Footballers of Peru, regarding potential manipulation of Liga 1 games for sports betting.
This call for investigation was made back in October, when Safap voiced their concerns about the possibility of game manipulation in the league. The updated gambling law, which became effective from February 9, 2024, does not address this issue directly.
The new legislation, sanctioned by the Peruvian government, does make significant changes in other areas. It mandates gambling operators to establish a local presence and register with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism of Peru (MINCETUR) by March 10, 2024. The law also includes updates on tax collection, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) measures, and the promotion of responsible gambling.
In a related development, Eduardo Sevilla Echevarría, who served as the president of the General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines (DGJCMT) for approximately two years, has stepped down from his position. His successor, Yuri Guerra Padilla, was appointed as the new president of DGJCMT. The specific reason for Eduardo Sevilla Echevarría's departure was not disclosed.
Some members of Safap had advocated for the suspension of the Betsson-sponsored league pending an investigation into these concerns. It remains to be seen whether the FPF will take action in response to these calls.
Before his role in the gambling regulator, Eduardo Sevilla Echevarría held positions in tourism, including director for the Cámara Nacional de Turismo (Canatur) and national director of tourism.
The announcement of Law No.31806 and the departure of Eduardo Sevilla Echevarría were made through Resolución Ministerial 044-2024-MINCETUR, issued by Juan Carlos Mathews Salazar, the Trade Minister.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to ensure the integrity and fairness of Liga 1 games, and for the Peruvian government to address the concerns raised by Safap promptly and effectively.
- The Peruvian government's new gambling law, effective from February 9, 2024, while making significant changes in some areas, does not directly address concerns about potential sports betting manipulation in Liga 1 games.
- Amidst the ongoing controversy, the policy-and-legislation surrounding casino-games and sports betting in Peru seems to have a gap, as the Peruvian Football Federation (FPF) has yet to investigate the allegations of manipulation.
- In general-news, the departure of Eduardo Sevilla Echevarría from his role as president of the General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines (DGJCMT) has added a layer of intrigue to the ongoing casino-and-gambling debate in Peruvian politics, particularly regarding sports betting and Liga 1 games.
