Dutch Grand Prix to Prohibit Gambling Sponsorships

The Dutch Gaming Authority (KSA) has officially confirmed that gambling sponsorships will not be allowed at the upcoming Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort. This is the first time the Netherlands has applied such a restriction to a major motorsport event. Under Dutch regulations, it is illegal to promote betting apps or casinos without a valid local licence, and this rule applies equally to both Dutch and foreign F1 teams.

Gambling News

by George Joseph

2 weeks ago 0 25

Why Formula 1 is Being Targeted

In July 2025, the Netherlands introduced stricter gambling laws aimed at reducing the visibility of betting-related promotions in sports. The purpose of the update is to protect viewers—particularly young fans—from frequent exposure to gambling content.

According to the KSA, any form of advertising by unlicensed operators, such as logos on race cars, driver suits, or even signage around the track, will be considered unlawful. F1 has long been an attractive platform for gambling sponsors thanks to its global reach, but the high-profile Dutch Grand Prix is now a key enforcement point.

Stricter Gambling Advertising Laws

The latest restrictions, effective July 2025, expand on the earlier 2021 legislation that first allowed licensed operators into the Dutch market.

Key points include:

Unlicensed companies are banned from all promotional activities targeting Dutch audiences.
Restrictions cover team apparel, cars, venue signage, and broadcast graphics.
Licensed brands may still advertise, but only within tightly controlled conditions.
Geo-blocking technology prevents Dutch users from accessing unlicensed gambling websites, even via links in international coverage.

For global sports like Formula 1, this creates a challenge: complying with Dutch rules without alienating major sponsors abroad.

Which Teams Will Be Affected?

Sauber (Stake): Stake, an online gambling platform, is the title sponsor of Sauber Motorsport. During the Dutch GP, the team will swap Stake’s branding for Kick, a gaming and streaming platform owned by the same parent company. Sauber has taken similar measures in Belgium, Spain, Australia, and Qatar.
McLaren (Allwyn): McLaren, partnered with Allwyn since the start of the 2025 season, will also be subject to the advertising restrictions.
Red Bull Racing (PokerStars) and Williams (Betway, Jackpot City): These partnerships may also require adjustments in the Netherlands.

Gambling sponsorships are nothing new to F1—SportPesa even held naming rights for Racing Point back in 2019—highlighting the sport’s long history with the industry.