Dutch Regulator Orders Sauber F1 to Remove Stake Branding
Ahead of this weekend’s Formula One race in Zandvoort, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the Dutch gaming authority, has instructed the Sauber racing team to refrain from advertising Stake, its main sponsor, during the Dutch Grand Prix. The KSA’s directive stems from the fact that Stake does not have the necessary licence to operate or promote its services in the Netherlands.
Dutch Law Blocks Stake Sponsorship in Formula 1
As the main sponsor of the Sauber F1 team, Stake is a prominent name in global motorsport events, with the team usually competing under the name “Stake F1 Team.” However, Dutch legislation prohibits any unlicensed gambling providers from advertising or offering services in the country. Without a KSA-issued license, Stake is not permitted to promote its brand during Dutch events.
The KSA emphasized the importance of this regulation, stating that gambling cannot be offered or promoted by operators in the Netherlands without proper licensing. Sauber has been instructed to take action by removing any visible Stake branding during the Dutch Grand Prix, ensuring compliance with local laws.
KSA Flags Ongoing Dutch Access Despite Geoblocking Measures
Despite efforts by Stake to implement geoblocking—a method used to prevent Dutch players from accessing its site—the KSA has noted ongoing participation from Dutch citizens. This raises concerns, particularly with an event like the Formula 1 Grand Prix, which garners significant attention from a broad audience, including vulnerable groups such as minors and young adults.
The KSA expressed its disapproval, stating: “It is undesirable that illegal gambling is advertised at a Dutch event with the reach and size of Formula 1, also because the event attracts a lot of attention among vulnerable groups (minors and young adults).”
Given these concerns, the KSA has urgently requested that Sauber refrain from advertising Stake and that event organizers do not promote the brand during the high-profile event.
This is not the first time Sauber has adjusted its sponsorship strategy to adhere to gambling regulations. In the past, the team has removed Stake branding and raced under the name “Kick Sauber” in regions with strict gambling laws. This precedent suggests that Sauber is likely to comply with the KSA’s latest directive to avoid potential penalties or reputational damage.
