Flamengo’s Bruno Henrique Indicted for Match-Fixing in Betting Scheme

Flamengo forward Bruno Henrique has been indicted by Brazil’s Federal Police, along with several relatives, for alleged involvement in a match-fixing and sports betting scheme. The investigation centers on a Brazilian league match played on November 1, 2023, against Santos, during which Bruno Henrique received a yellow card that authorities suspect was premeditated.

According to reports from No Ataque, the Federal Police uncovered WhatsApp messages between Bruno and his brother, Wander Nunes Pinto Júnior, where Wander asked if he had two yellow cards in the league. Bruno confirmed and stated he would get the third against Santos. Wander then commented on setting aside money from the “investment.” Bruno Henrique received a yellow for a foul on Soteldo and was later sent off for insulting the referee. Flamengo lost 2-1 at Mané Garrincha Stadium.

Wander, his wife Ludymilla Araújo Lima, and their cousin Poliana Ester Nunes Cardoso allegedly placed bets on the event and collected over three times their initial stakes. A second group of friends linked to Wander also benefited from the same scheme.

Bruno Henrique and his brother face charges of fraud and violating Brazil’s General Sports Law, which includes penalties of up to six years in prison. The striker, a club icon with 101 goals and 15 titles since joining Flamengo in 2019, is now entangled in a legal battle that threatens his career and legacy.