The online gambling site Stake.uk.com will halt its services in Great Britain by next month following TGP Europe Limited's (TGP) announcement of its closure. The UK Gambling Commission's investigation, sparked by the site's branding appearing in a viral video with an adult actress near Nottingham Trent University , led to this decision.
TGP, which operates Stake.uk.com under a specific type of licensing arrangement, has faced previous regulatory actions. After a recent consultation with authorities, the company decided to immediately stop accepting new customers and to remove links from its main international portal. The final shutdown of Stake.uk.com is planned for March 11, 2025 .
Impact of Regulatory Challenges on Football Sponsorships
Concerns have arisen about unapproved gambling sponsorships within English football. Stake sponsors the jerseys of Everton Football Club , prompting the UK Gambling Commission to warn this club and others about the legal implications of supporting unlicensed companies.
Regulators are requiring football clubs to prove they've done their homework on their white-label gambling partners. They must also confirm that geo-blocking safeguards are effective to block UK users from unlicensed gambling sites . Despite this, there are worries that these restrictions might be circumvented with VPNs.
Legal Risks for Non-Compliant Football Clubs
The warning from the Commission is serious and carries legal implications. Officials of the involved clubs could face legal action, financial penalties, or even imprisonment if they are found to be endorsing gambling businesses operating without proper licensing.
Guidance for Affected Consumers
With the impending closure of Stake.uk.com, customers in the UK are urged to withdraw their funds ahead of the shutdown. Those worried about their account status or funds should reach out directly to the operator via their website.
This incident underscores increasing examination of white-label business models within the UK gambling sector, emphasizing the Gambling Commission's dedication to safeguarding consumers and ensuring regulatory adherence.
