Eden Hazard investigated by Belgian regulators after Stake ambassador deal

Eden Hazard is reportedly under investigation by the Belgian Gaming Commission. The former Chelsea player recently took on a new ambassador role with online casino operator Stake.

Hazard stopped playing professional football in 2023. He was announced as a “global ambassador” for the brand earlier this week.

Why is this a problem?

Belgian outlet Het Laatste Nieuws, said the country’s gambling regulator has launched a probe. It is investigating whether Hazard’s activities could breach strict national gambling advertising rules.

Stake isn’t licensed in Belgium. Promoting the brand to Belgian residents could violate gambling laws. If regulators decide that Hazard’s advertising content targeted Belgian consumers, there could be legal consequences for him.

Social media bio updated after announcement

Hazard updated his Instagram biography after the partnership was announced. The profile now includes a note explaining that Stake services are unavailable in Belgium and Spain. Hazard’s role is described as a “global ambassador” for the company. This appears deliberate and a way to reduce the risk of the promotional campaign being interpreted as targeting Belgian players.

Hazard shared a short promotional video. He announced the partnership to his 27 million Instagram followers. The video showed the former midfielder wearing a Stake-branded kit.

In a statement released alongside the announcement, Hazard said he was excited about the next stage of his career.

“Football has given me so many incredible memories, from lifting domestic and European trophies to representing my country as captain. Now, in this next chapter, I can’t wait to engage with fans in new and meaningful ways.” - Hazard

Stake continues to expand football partnerships

Stake has built a strong presence in football marketing in recent years. The brand has signed a number of former players as ambassadors. Among those linked to the brand are Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero and former Manchester United defender Patrice Evra.

The operator has also been visible in Premier League sponsorship. Stake currently acts as the front-of-shirt sponsor for Everton. However, it has ended its UK casino operations in March 2025 following regulatory pressure.

Hazard was widely regarded as one of Chelsea’s greatest modern player. He made more than 350 appearances for the club. He also won two Premier League titles and an FA Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.

Belgium’s Gaming Commission has not yet publicly commented on the outcome or timeline of the investigation.