Belgium’s gambling regulatory body has warned former Chelsea and Real Madrid star Eden Hazard that he risks prosecution if he doesn’t cut ties with a crypto casino firm.
The Belgian Gaming Commission (BGC) is investigating Hazard’s partnership with Stake, which the ex-winger took to X last week to announce:
“I am looking forward to connecting with fans in meaningful new ways and sharing, with Stake, moments of adrenaline and the pure joy of football,” stated the Belgian native.
According to the Daily Mail, Hazard shared the video of his debut as Stake brand ambassador with his 27 million Instagram fans.
Belgium introduced a blanket ban on all gambling advertising in 2023, while Stake has been blacklisted by the BCA since 2021 and is unlicensed to offer its products in the country. Reasserting that promoting gambling in Belgium was illegal, the BGC stated it will now investigate “whether the advertising by Eden Hazard is targeting the Belgian market.”
will be issued a formal notice to sever his relationship with Stake
BGC spokesperson Stefaan Savenberg said if the body finds the soccer legend is targeting his fellow Belgians, he will be issued a formal notice to sever his relationship with Stake.
“If this does not happen, a sanction could be considered,” Savenberg added.
EPL Hall of Famer Hazard helped Chelsea to land six major trophies before moving to Real Madrid in 2023 where injuries put paid to a glittering career.
