BETBY launches Vaquejada Eletr?nico and enables a cultural heritage of the Northeast
Vaquejada is a powerful tradition in the Brazilian Northeast, deeply rooted in the regions culture and history. Recently, this practice has gained new momentum with the initiative of BETBY, a provider of sports betting solutions. The company has expanded its portfolio to include vaquejada markets and launched Vaquejada Eletr?nico, an e-sport developed in-house.
This competition has its roots in the activities of northeastern cowboys, who, since colonial times, have handled cattle in large rural areas. The competition consists of two cowboys on horseback working together to bring down a bull within a marked location, pulling it by the tail until it falls on its side. This practice is entertaining, showcases the players skill and courage, and celebrates the culture and customs of the northeastern people. Over time, vaquejada spread across the entire country, becoming predominant in rural areas during rodeos. In 2016, Brazil recognized vaquejada as an intangible cultural heritage, and its importance in the national identity is evident today.
The BETBY initiative: Integrating tradition and technology
Recognising the popularity of vaquejada and its potential in the betting market, BETBY decided to invest in this sport. The company now offers pre-match markets for real events of different levels, ensuring coverage that caters to both high-level competitions and smaller events. BETBY has also launched Vaquejada Eletr?nico, a fully automated simulation powered by artificial intelligence. Developed in-house, this e-sport replicates the intensity and strategy of real competitions, providing a unique betting experience.
Vaquejada Eletr?nico offers an incredible frequency of events, with 7,500 competitions per month, organised into a league with over 20 betting markets. Each contest is dynamic, with AI-generated decisions ensuring that no match is the same as another. Matches last an average of five minutes, with teams named in honour of their captains, each having four attempts to bring down the bull. Scoring is based on successful executions, with penalties applied for mistakes.
The sport has a massive impact on the economy of the Northeast. These events boost local commerce and generate jobs during festival seasons. Initially, vaquejada emerged as an activity linked to farm work. However, over time, it became a strong cultural tradition recognised as part of the regions heritage.
BETBY introduces virtual vaquejada alternative
Despite its popularity, vaquejada faces criticism from animal rights organisations, which highlight possible mistreatment involved in the practice. Issues such as the welfare of bulls and horses used in competitions are frequently debated, leading to discussions about regulations and adaptations that could minimise negative impacts. In this context, initiatives such as BETBYs Vaquejada Eletr?nico emerge as alternatives that allow the tradition to be celebrated without ethical concerns regarding animal treatment, offering a virtual experience that preserves the essence of the competition.
Critics target not only vaquejada but also all animal-based competitions, such as rodeos, horse racing, and bullfighting. These practices are often questioned due to the risks of mistreatment, stress, and possible injuries that animals may suffer during competitions.
This article was first published in Portuguese on 25 March 2025
