Dutch Grand Prix warned by Ksa over offshore gambling ads

Garance Limouzy August 21, 2024

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Dutch Grand Prix warned by Ksa over offshore gambling ads

The Dutch gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (Ksa), has formally warned the organisers of the Dutch Grand Prix and the Sauber F1 racing team to cease any promotion of the gambling company Stake during the upcoming Formula 1 event in Zandvoort, on Sunday, 25 August. The Ksa’s intervention comes just days before the highly anticipated race.

Sauber and Stake

Sauber, which has been competing under the “Stake F1 Team” banner in most international races, is sponsored by Stake, a global online sports-betting platform. However, Stake lacks the necessary license from the Ksa to operate within the Netherlands, rendering any promotion of its services illegal under Dutch law.

Netherlands’ regulatory framework

In the Netherlands, it is prohibited to offer, advertise, or encourage participation in gambling activities without proper authorisation from the local authorities. This includes online gambling operators and offshore platforms, who are required to implement geoblocking measures to prevent Dutch citizens from accessing their products. While Stake has reportedly employed such measures, the Ksa has noted that Dutch players are still managing to access the site and participate in its games.

Dutch Grand Prix

Given the high-profile nature of the Dutch Grand Prix, which attracts a broad audience, including minors and young adults, the Ksa views the potential promotion of offshore gambling during the event as particularly concerning. The regulator stated in a press release that the exposure of vulnerable groups to such advertisements could have “serious consequences”.

The Ksa has urged Sauber and the Dutch Grand Prix organisers to avoid any association with Stake during the event. Specifically, the Ksa has requested that Sauber refrain from using the “Stake F1 Team” name and ensure that no advertising for the gambling operator takes place during the Zandvoort race.