Extinct lotteries: the legacy of Brazilian draws

Brazil boasts a long and diverse tradition when it comes to games of chance. Lotteries have been a national passion, blending the dream of wealth with the reality of contributing to public and social funds. However, over the years, while some lotteries have cemented their place in popular culture, others have disappeared. Let's explore more about these forgotten games and what led to the end of their operations.

1. Loteria Esportiva

Introduced in 1970 amidst the fervor of national soccer and in anticipation of the World Cup, Loteria Esportiva quickly gained popularity. It allowed bettors to predict the outcomes of soccer matches. With its popularity, other sports were eventually included. The emergence of new forms of sports betting, combined with its betting structure, which some found complicated, led to a gradual decrease in its player base.

2. Loteria Instantânea

In the 1990s, aiming to innovate and bring internationally popular formats to Brazil, the Instantânea Lottery was introduced. Inspired by "scratch-off" cards, the concept was simple: buy, scratch, and see if you won. However, the game proved vulnerable to frauds, and over time, its appeal diminished against other games offering larger prizes and better odds.

3. Loteria Classista

Established in 1985, its main objective was to finance actions aimed at the working class. The lottery had a unique proposal, being divided between the workers' lottery, the businessman's lottery, and others, aiming to cater to different segments of society. However, its complexity and lack of transparency in prize distribution led to its discontinuation in 1991.

4. Lotogol

Launched in 2002, Lotogol aimed to merge the national passion for soccer with the thrill of betting. Bettors had to predict the exact score of soccer matches. It was a challenging game but offered attractive prizes. Its discontinuation in 2019 came as part of a restructuring of the national lotteries. Competition from other forms of betting, especially online, and its lesser popularity compared to other games prompted its removal.

Reflection

The journey of these extinct lotteries reflects more than mere games of chance. They bear witness to the social, cultural, and technological shifts Brazil has undergone in recent decades. And even if they are no longer active, each has left an indelible mark on the memory of those who dared to dream through them.