350% or 5BTC + 150 Spins!
New players only. Exclusive Welcome Bonus of 350% + 150 Free Spins
Major online sports betting and iGaming company Stake is no longer able to conduct business in the United Kingdom. After an inquiry showed that its logo was posted on a social media site with an adult actress close to Nottingham Trent University, the U.K. Gambling Commission cancelled its license.
The regulator gave Stake until March 11 to shut down entirely in the nation. Access has already been limited, though, by TGP Europe Limited, which manages Stake’s activities in the United Kingdom under a white-label contract.
“When an operator leaves the British gambling market, we expect an orderly closure,” stated the commission. “This includes providing consumers with clear information on how to obtain their funds.” It advised customers to contact the operator directly if they have account-related questions.
Stake’s license revocation also affects its sponsorships in English football. The company is a sponsor for three professional teams, including Everton, whose jerseys prominently feature the brand’s name.
The Gambling Commission plans to formally warn these clubs about the risks of promoting an unlicensed gambling operator. It expects them to ensure that British consumers cannot access Stake’s platform. Regulators will independently verify compliance.
Failure to comply could lead to serious consequences. The commission warned that clubs promoting an unlicensed operator could face prosecution, fines, or even imprisonment.
Since 2022, Everton has been in a sponsorship deal with Stake worth more than £10 million per season.
Despite the U.K. setback, Stake continues to operate legally in over 35 countries. The company also runs a social casino platform accessible in 43 U.S. states.
A Stake spokesperson addressed the situation, stating, “Stake has made a strategic decision in mutual agreement with TGP Europe to exit white-label agreements and focus on securing local licenses through our in-house platform and operations, building upon our growth in key regulated markets such as our recent expansions into Italy and Brazil.”
Stake’s future in the U.K. remains uncertain, but the company appears focused on strengthening its presence in other regulated markets.