Mexican Supreme Court Denies Government Intervention in Casino Legal Disputes, Upholding Industry Victories

In a significant ruling, Mexico’s Supreme Court (SCJN) has rejected a petition from the federal Interior Ministry (Segob) to intervene in ongoing legal battles over casino operations, marking another setback for the government’s efforts to impose stricter regulations on the gaming sector. The decision, reached during a closed-door session, leaves key regulatory challenges to lower courts and reinforces recent legal victories by major casino operators.

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Background and Legal Context

The dispute stems from controversial 2023 reforms introduced by former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, which sought to tighten casino operating rules. However, the industry—led by prominent operators such as Grupo Caliente, Zitro Games, and Operadora de Coincidencias Numéricas (owner of Winpot and Crown Supreme casinos)—challenged these restrictions through injunctions.

Federal courts have consistently ruled in favor of the industry, citing the 1947 Federal Games and Sweepstakes Law, which permits games of chance, including roulette, dice, and card games. A landmark January 2025 decision effectively nullified López Obrador’s reforms, allowing Mexican casinos to offer Las Vegas-style gaming.

Supreme Court’s Decision and Implications

The SCJN’s First Chamber unanimously dismissed Segob’s request, stating the ministry lacked standing to seek judicial clarification on casino regulations. The ruling:

• Upholds lower court decisions that have expanded casino operations under the 1947 law.
• Rejects the 2023 reforms, reinforcing the legality of chance-based games.
• Clears the path for industry growth, including the reintroduction of slot machines previously banned under the contested regulations.

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Notably, Judge Gabriel Regis—now a Supreme Court nominee—previously supported this legal interpretation, further strengthening the industry’s position.

Industry Outlook

With the Supreme Court’s refusal to intervene, the gaming sector is poised for significant expansion under the long-standing 1947 framework. The rulings are final and unappealable, providing legal certainty for operators and investors.

This decision underscores the resilience of Mexico’s gaming industry against restrictive policies and highlights the judiciary’s role in shaping regulatory outcomes.