Influencer Shows Senators How to Bet During Senate Gambling Inquiry

Brazilian influencer Rico Melquiades, summoned to testify before the Senate's CPI (Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry) into online betting, provided a live demonstration of how he uses the "Jogo do Tigrinho" app. The demonstration, requested by Senator Soraya Thronicke, the CPI's rapporteur, took place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, in the presence of several senators. Melquiades explained that he bets daily for fun and to manage anxiety, a habit he shares with his family. "It helps me with my anxiety, just like cigarettes," Melquiades stated. The event highlights growing concerns about the influence of online gambling and the role of influencers in promoting such activities. The CPI is investigating contracts and promotional work of influencers for online betting and gambling sites. The visual evidence from the video adds weight to the ongoing inquiry.