Brazil's historic illegal "animal lottery" (jogo do bicho) is facing unprecedented decline as the country's new regulated online gambling market gains popularity. The century-old numbers racket, traditionally controlled by organized crime, is losing ground to convenient mobile gaming options.

The animal lottery, which lets players bet on numbers associated with 25 different animals, has been deeply embedded in Brazilian culture since the late 19th century. Originally created as a zoo promotion by Baron João Batista Viana Drummond, it evolved into a widespread illegal gambling operation.

Since Brazil's legalization of sports betting in 2018 and the recent regulation of online casino gaming in January 2025, traditional street-corner betting is being replaced by digital alternatives. Licensed operators now offer online versions of jogo do bicho alongside modern casino games, providing a legal alternative with larger potential payouts.

This shift is significantly impacting organized crime groups, known as bicheiros, who have historically controlled the game through violence, bribery, and money laundering. Despite maintaining power through a combination of intimidation and community support - including funding Carnival parades and holiday gifts - these groups are struggling to compete with legitimate digital operators.

Luiz Antônio Simas, a Rio historian and author, notes that the traditional animal lottery has failed to attract newer generations, suggesting a permanent decline in its influence as Brazil embraces regulated online gambling.

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