A delayed ban opens the door for offshore gambling firms
The UK government has announced a crackdown on unlicensed casinos that sponsor British sports teams, but a postponement in the legislation has already enabled offshore operators to lock in agreements with Premier League clubs. Everton FC’s three‑year sleeve partnership with the crypto casino Stake.com is the most high‑profile example of this trend.
Stella David, chief executive of Ladbrokes‑owner Entain, has urged ministers to act swiftly, warning that unregulated gambling not only endangers fans but also funnels profits to international criminal networks and deprives the Treasury of tax revenue. Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, has joined the criticism, calling the Everton‑Stake deal a stark illustration of the risks posed by lax oversight.
The Gambling Commission has issued a stark warning to football clubs, stating they could face prosecution if they continue to promote unlicensed gambling businesses. While the Premier League and the government have agreed to ban front‑of‑shirt casino and bookmaker deals from the 2026‑27 season, the current loophole allows existing contracts to remain in place until the new rules take effect.
Stake.com, one of the world’s largest gambling platforms, has been at the centre of multiple controversies before exiting the UK market. Investigations have uncovered aggressive promotional tactics, including a $10 “free” bet offer that required users to wager $5,000 within a week, and concerns over the ease with which British customers can place crypto‑based bets on its site.