Ex-Chelsea Star Probed in Belgium Over Gambling Deal

Eden Hazard Faces Scrutiny Over Gambling Ambassador Role in Belgium

Former Chelsea superstar Eden Hazard is reportedly facing a potential investigation from Belgian authorities following his appointment as a global ambassador for Stake, a gambling company that is currently blacklisted in his native Belgium. The move has raised eyebrows and could lead to significant repercussions for the beloved football icon.

Hazard, who is 35, announced his partnership with Stake via his Instagram account, where he boasts a following of 27 million people. He shared an introductory video detailing the collaboration, inadvertently drawing the attention of the Belgian Gaming Commission.

A Strict Ban on Gambling Advertisements

The core of the issue lies in Belgium’s stringent regulations surrounding gambling advertising. In Belgium, advertising for gambling activities is strictly prohibited. This legal framework is the primary reason why the Belgian Gaming Commission has indicated it will be launching an investigation into Hazard’s involvement with Stake.

Stefaan Savenberg, a spokesperson for the Commission, confirmed the impending review. “We will examine whether the advertising by Eden Hazard is targeting the Belgian market,” Savenberg stated. “Advertising for gambling is prohibited in Belgium.” The commission’s focus will be on determining if Hazard’s promotional efforts are aimed at Belgian consumers.

Potential Consequences for Hazard

Should the Belgian Gaming Commission conclude that Hazard’s promotion is indeed targeting the Belgian market, he will be issued a formal notice. This notice will require him to immediately cease his association with Stake. The consequences of non-compliance could be severe. “If this does not happen, a sanction could be considered,” Savenberg added, hinting at potential fines or further punitive measures.

Stake is one of the companies that feature prominently on the Belgian Gaming Commission’s blacklist. These companies are deemed to be operating without the necessary licenses required to conduct business within Belgium, making their operations illegal in the jurisdiction. The commission has been proactive in blacklisting such operators, with approximately 20 additional companies, including Stake, being added to the list in 2021. The fundamental reason for their inclusion is the absence of a valid Belgian operating license.

A Pattern of High-Profile Ambassadors

Hazard is not the only former footballing luminary to align himself with Stake in an ambassadorial capacity. He joins a roster of distinguished players who have taken on similar roles for the company. Notable names include Spanish legend Iker Casillas, Argentine star Sergio Aguero, and French defender Patrice Evra.

Upon his appointment, Hazard expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “I am looking forward to connecting with fans in meaningful new ways and sharing, with Stake, moments of adrenaline and the pure joy of football,” he remarked, highlighting his desire to engage with supporters through this new venture.

Hazard’s Illustrious Career

Eden Hazard enjoyed a stellar career, etching his name into Premier League folklore. He is a proud inductee into the Premier League Hall of Fame, having netted 85 goals for Chelsea during his tenure in England’s top flight. His contributions were instrumental in helping the London club secure six major trophies over a successful seven-year period.

Following his success at Chelsea, Hazard made a high-profile move to Spanish giants Real Madrid. However, his time at the Santiago Bernabéu was marred by persistent injuries and a noticeable dip in form, leading to a disappointing spell. Ultimately, the gifted winger decided to hang up his boots, retiring from professional football in 2023.

Since his retirement, Hazard has continued to grace the football pitch in a more informal capacity, primarily for charity matches. He recently participated in the “Match for Hope” event held in January. This marked the third instalment of such charity initiatives, which are estimated to have collectively raised over £15 million. The funds generated from these matches are dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, showcasing Hazard’s ongoing commitment to philanthropic causes.