Stake to Cease UK Operations Following Gambling Commission Investigation
Stake has advised customers to withdraw any remaining funds before the closure date.
The Gambling Commission has announced that Stake.uk.com will no longer operate in the UK market from next month.
This follows an investigation into a social media video featuring an adult actress outside Nottingham Trent University, where the Stake logo was displayed. As a result, the operator has informed players via email of its exit, stating:
"We regret to inform you of a business decision that has led to the Stake brand ceasing its UK operations. On Monday, 10th March 2025, stake.uk.com will close its website, and you will no longer be able to access your account."
Stake has advised customers to withdraw any remaining funds before the closure date.
Impact on Football Sponsorship
Stake currently serves as Everton's front-of-shirt sponsor, raising concerns over its ongoing involvement in UK football. The Gambling Commission has confirmed it will write to Everton and two other clubs with unlicensed sponsors, warning of the risks of promoting unlawful gambling websites.
Premier League clubs voted last year to ban front-of-shirt gambling sponsors, with the rule set to take effect at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The regulator expects clubs to conduct due diligence on their white-label partners, ensuring that British consumers cannot transact with unlicensed operators. Failure to comply could result in fines, prosecution, or imprisonment.
Previous Regulatory Action
This isn’t the first time TGP Europe, the operator of Stake.uk.com, has faced scrutiny. In April 2023, the company was fined £316,250 ($393,978) for anti-money laundering and social responsibility failures across its white-label brands.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about regulatory compliance within the gambling industry, particularly regarding white-label operators and their affiliations with major sports teams.
