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Eden Hazard faces Belgian crackdown over crypto casino promotion

From football legend to legal hot water: Hazard's Stake deal tests Belgium's zero-tolerance gambling rules. Will he walk away—or face court?

The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a...
The image shows a blue and white logo with the words "Gamblers vs 28" written on it, along with a few playing cards and a stick. The logo is likely associated with a gambling game, suggesting that the image is meant to represent the differences between the two sides of the game.

Eden Hazard faces Belgian crackdown over crypto casino promotion

Former footballer Eden Hazard has been officially warned by Belgium’s gambling regulator over his partnership with crypto casino firm Stake. The Belgian Gaming Commission is examining whether his promotion of the platform violates the country’s strict gambling laws.

Stake has been blacklisted in Belgium since 2021 and operates without a licence in the country.

Hazard, who helped Chelsea win six major trophies before joining Real Madrid in 2023, saw his career cut short by persistent injuries. After retiring, he signed a promotional deal with Stake, a move now under scrutiny.

Belgium introduced a full ban on gambling advertising in 2023, making any promotion of betting services illegal. The Gaming Commission is investigating whether Hazard’s partnership specifically targets Belgian players. If evidence is found, he will receive a formal notice to end his collaboration with Stake. A failure to comply could lead to legal action. The regulator has made clear that sanctions may follow if Hazard does not sever ties with the unlicensed operator.

The warning places Hazard at risk of prosecution if he continues promoting Stake in Belgium. The regulator’s next steps depend on whether he complies with the potential notice. A formal decision is expected once the investigation concludes.

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