SiGMA South America Hall of Game 2026 honours industry pioneers in Sao Paulo

Set against the lively backdrop of Sao Paulo, BiS SiGMA South America 2026, brought to you by SOFTSWISS, gathered the region’s leading voices in gaming, technology and regulation for a week of high-level networking, exhibitions and thought leadership.

A standout moment within this broader event was the SiGMA South America Awards 2026, presented by BetConstruct AI, which took place on 06 April at Tokio Marine Hall. Among the evening’s most distinguished highlights was the Hall of Game ceremony, recognising individuals whose leadership and innovation have played a defining role in shaping the gaming and betting landscape across South America.

Celebrating vision and impact

As a prestigious pillar within the SiGMA Awards portfolio, the Hall of Game celebrates the pioneers, entrepreneurs and executives whose contributions have driven the evolution of the industry. From market creation and technological innovation to regulatory progress and international expansion, each honouree represents a cornerstone of South America’s rapidly growing gaming ecosystem.

The award underscores long-term impact, recognising those who have built platforms, fostered connections and elevated the region onto the global stage.

The SiGMA South America 2026 Hall of Game honourees

This year’s South America edition honoured an influential group of industry leaders and visionaries:

• Alessandro Valente: A leading figure in Brazil’s iGaming market, Alessandro Valente brings over 20 years of experience to the industry. As founder of BiS and Super Afiliados, he has supported international companies entering Brazil while driving innovation across technology and crypto. His investments in Ana Gaming and Cactus Gaming further demonstrate his commitment to advancing the sector.
• Flávio Figueiredo: Entrepreneur and iGaming pioneer, Flávio Figueiredo is co-founder of BiS and CEO of iGaming Brazil. With more than a decade of industry leadership, he has been instrumental in fostering market growth, supporting regulatory development and strengthening Brazil’s position within the global betting ecosystem.
• Almir Ribeiro: CEO of BetMGM Brazil, Almir Ribeiro is a seasoned digital executive with over 25 years of experience. He led the creation of Betboo, now part of Entain, and has spent years advising companies expanding into Latin America’s betting and iGaming markets, helping shape strategic growth across the region.
• Óscar Orué: As Paraguay’s National Director of Tax Revenue, Óscar Orué oversees tax, customs and gaming regulation. With more than three decades of experience in public finance, he has driven record revenues, modernised administration systems, strengthened institutional frameworks and promoted transparency and national development.
• Cássio Filter: With a background in journalism, Cássio Filter now leads KTO’s expansion in Brazil. Invited by founder Andreas Bardun, he transitioned into the iGaming sector and has since played a key role in shaping company strategy, driving growth, and reinforcing KTO’s competitive position in the Brazilian market.
• Carlos Cardama: Co-founder of BiS SiGMA Americas, Carlos Cardama brings 30 years of industry experience. Originally from Argentina and now based in Brazil, he pioneered the country’s first bingo card printing company, launched Games Magazine, and founded the Brazilian iGaming Summit, helping position Brazil as a global gaming hub.

A night of prestige and connection

The Hall of Game ceremony formed part of a high-profile awards attended by regulators, industry leaders, C-level executives and innovators from across the globe. The SiGMA Awards continue to serve as a central meeting point for meaningful dialogue, strategic partnerships and celebration of excellence within the industry.

Guests enjoyed an evening of premium entertainment, fine dining and networking, setting the tone for a week of impactful discussions and collaboration at BiS SiGMA South America.

Driving the future of gaming in South America

The South America Hall of Game highlights the individuals whose ambition and leadership are accelerating the region’s growth. From entrepreneurial pioneers to regulatory leaders, these honourees embody the vision, resilience and innovation shaping the future of gaming across the continent.

As South America continues its rapid ascent in the global iGaming arena, the Hall of Game stands as a testament to those building its foundations, championing progress, fostering trust and unlocking new opportunities across one of the industry’s most exciting markets.

As day 0 of BiS SiGMA South America 2026 closes, stay tuned as we continue to bring you event coverage across high-level panels, elite networking and side events, the SiGMA Poker Tour and more.