Dutch authorities ask Stake F1 to change its name to Zandvoort

The Dutch Grand Prix starts this Thursday with media day. While the grid has had time to rest, once again, Stake F1 finds itself in controversy because of its sponsors. The Dutch government has asked the team to change its name for this weekend.

This is not the first time

Stake F1, also known as Sauber, is struggling to survive this year. While the season is already complicated with no points scored in 2024, the team’s name seems to cause as many problems as the car itself. This is due to the sponsor Stake that gave its name to the team. Stake is an Australian gambling company particularly involved in games of chance. While some countries allow it, others like Belgium and now the Netherlands are far from encouraging it.

A few Grand Prix ago, the team had already been ordered to change its name to adopt the name Kick at Spa-Francorchamps. If advertising for gambling is not completely illegal in the country, it is extremely restricted. Since Stake was not among the companies authorized to advertise in Belgium, the team wore the name Kick throughout the weekend. This was displayed on the car, as well as on the drivers’ clothing.

A similar case in the Netherlands

While advertising for gambling is not prohibited in the Netherlands, as it is in Belgium, Stake does not have the required license to operate in the country. This makes it an illegal online platform for Dutch users. Despite access to the site being blocked in the country, the Ksa (Kansspelautoriteit) has reported several cases of Dutch players managing to access the platform. This behavior has prompted the government to take action. The Dutch authority has therefore asked Stake F1 to race under a different name this weekend.

According to the information available on the Ksa’s website, the regulatory body personally requested the name change. The Ksa’s board of directors therefore strongly urged Sauber and the organization of the Dutch Grand Prix not to compete under the name Stake and not to advertise for this provider, according to what could be read. The Ksa took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals, especially minors and young adults, from exposure to gambling. This is even more crucial during major events like Formula 1.

In response to this request, the team could revert to the Kick Sauber brand name for the Grand Prix in Zandvoort. Stake had already used this name during the races in Australia, Spain, and Belgium. Qatar, which will host another Grand Prix later in the season, will be among the countries where the name change will be mandatory. With Formula 1’s desire to distance itself from the promotion of dangerous products, Stake F1 is not done dealing with regulations.