Sauber in trouble over new title sponsor

Feb.8 (GMM) Sauber has brushed off concerns it breached Swiss advertising laws during its reveal of the 2023 car on Tuesday.

The Alfa Romeo-branded team has a new title sponsor this year – Stake, a Curacao-registered online casino and gambling portal.

The Swiss newspaper Blick reports that the actual Stake logo, however, will only be seen at “a few races” this year because of laws against gambling advertising.

Indeed, simply revealing the Stake-branded car on Tuesday on the Swiss broadcaster SRF may have attracted the attention of Switzerland’s Federal Gaming Board (ESBK).

“If the ESBK becomes aware of the case and initiates an investigation, it could have criminal consequences,” said Ruedi Schneider, the board’s deputy head.

Sauber, however, is not worried.

“Stake confirmed to us that the company is not targeting the Swiss market with its games,” the Swiss-based team said.

“The domain is blocked in Switzerland and further measures are being taken to prevent Swiss users from accessing the services,” Sauber added.

“As a team, we always comply with all applicable local laws and FIA regulations.”

Indeed, Sauber’s plan is to replace the Stake logo with ‘Kick’ branding at many grands prix this year – the Stake-owned gaming livestream platform.

Steve Cole

Share
Published by
Steve Cole

Recent Posts

Hulkenberg still a 'silly season' player – Schumacher

Jun.10 (GMM)  Nico Hulkenberg could find himself with a starring role in a future round…

4 months ago

F2 driver says new fans don't understand racing

Jun.9 (GMM) Many new fans of top-level single seater racing do not understand "how motorsport…

4 months ago

Newey attracting talent to Aston Martin – de la Rosa

Jun.9 (GMM) The 'Adrian Newey effect' is already happening at Aston Martin, according to team…

4 months ago

Stroll in 'good condition' for Canadian GP

Jun.9 (GMM) Lance Stroll looks set to return to the wheel of his Aston Martin…

4 months ago

Hamilton will 'maybe not' win eighth title

Jun.9 (GMM) Lewis Hamilton's hopes of an eighth world championship are slipping away. That's the…

4 months ago

Three F1 stars predict Piastri title in '25

Jun.9 (GMM) Three former Formula 1 drivers agree that Oscar Piastri has become the clear…

4 months ago