Brazil Roundup: Air Europa flight, historic World Rugby Women’s Rankings, Copa América

Turbulence diverts Air Europa flight to Brazil

Over 30 passengers were injured on an Air Europa flight from Spain to Uruguay due to severe turbulence. Local authorities say at 2:32 a.m. local time, the aircraft made an emergency landing at the Natal Airport in northeastern Brazil, as reported by the Standard. The injured passengers sustained minor abrasions or orthopaedic traumas and were taken to hospitals in Natal, according to the health secretariat of the government of the Rio Grande do Norte state, where Natal is located. Air Europa reported that another plane was scheduled to take off from Madrid to pick up the passengers and continue the journey to Uruguay.

Market access for Australian sheepmeat restored

Brazil has restored market access for Australian sheepmeat, allowing trade to resume. This gives access to the 217 million people in Brazil and opens new opportunities for the Australian sheepmeat industry. "Brazil has a sizeable and growing market for meat products where Australian products are held in high regard for their excellence," Australia’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Murray Watt said. He added that the Australian government is committed to seeing the continued growth of bilateral agricultural trade relationship with Brazil, Australian news agency Mirage reports.

Regulations for land-based casinos

Brazil is set to vote on regulations for land-based casinos, bingo, horse racing, and instant win games in August after Parliament's recess. The Bill seeks to reorganise gambling laws and has faced delays and opposition, but is expected to be voted on after the recess. The vote is separate from the upcoming regulatory launch of the sports betting market in Brazil.

Historic World Rugby Women's Rankings

Brazil achieved a historic 12-place jump to 39th in the World Rugby Women's Rankings following their 34-13 victory over Colombia in the Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 qualification play-off. This is their highest-ever position since the rankings began in 2016. Colombia has dropped three places to 29th, while Wales' win over Spain did not affect their rankings.

Copa América clash with Colombia

Brazil and Colombia are set to face off in a crucial Copa América 2024 Group Stage match. Brazil needs a win to top the group, while Colombia is already through to the quarter-finals. Brazil is looking strong after a convincing victory over Paraguay, but Colombia is on a 25-game unbeaten streak. The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams likely to score.