Eden Hazard, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid star, is facing scrutiny after becoming an ambassador for Stake, an online betting company that is not licensed to operate in Belgium. The Belgian Gaming Commission has announced it will open an investigation into the matter, according to reports.
The Commission will investigate whether Hazard’s promotion of Stake is targeted towards a Belgian audience, as advertising gambling services is prohibited in Belgium. A spokesperson for the Commission, Stefaan Savenberg, stated they will begin the inquiry on Monday, March 16th.
If a violation is found, Hazard could be asked to end his partnership with Stake. Failure to comply could result in sanctions. This comes as other high-profile footballers, including Sergio Agüero and Iker Casillas, have also turn into ambassadors for the brand.
Stake is currently a shirt sponsor for Premier League club Everton and previously had a presence in Formula 1 with Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, now backed by Audi. Although the site is illegal in Belgium, it is authorized to operate in other countries, such as the United Kingdom.
