Sauber’s Formula 1 outfit, more commonly recognized as Stake F1, will not be allowed to use its regular team name during the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort (29–31 August 2025). The change comes after the Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), reaffirmed its strict prohibition on gambling-related advertising at sporting events held in the Netherlands.

The team’s full registered name is Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, reflecting the backing of online gambling operator Stake. However, under Dutch law, gambling providers without a local license are banned from displaying sponsorships or promotional content. Even licensed operators face limitations when it comes to online gambling advertising. That leaves Sauber with no choice but to strip Stake branding for the weekend, with Kick expected to take the lead role in the team’s identity during the Zandvoort race.

According to the KSA announcement, “It is expressly prohibited to display advertising or other visible materials from gambling providers without a Dutch licence. Such materials from unlicensed providers are considered to promote illegal gambling. This violates applicable legislation.”

A Recurring Issue for Sauber and Its Sponsors

This isn’t the first time the Hinwil-based team has had to adapt its branding. In 2024, Dutch regulators also urged Sauber not to compete under the Stake name. Despite the warning, the team chose to retain it at the time. More recently, at the Belgian Grand Prix, drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto already raced under a modified name due to similar legal restrictions.

The KSA has made clear that its rules apply not only to Dutch organizations but also to foreign teams competing in the Netherlands. The authority has contacted sports associations and event organizers, including the Dutch GP, to ensure full compliance. Following these discussions, organizers confirmed that no team competing at Zandvoort will carry visible gambling sponsorship.

The regulator has also urged vigilance, stating that all parties should reach out for clarification when uncertain about the admissibility of sponsor-related material.

Impact on Stake F1’s Momentum

The enforced rebranding comes at a time when Sauber’s squad is showing signs of progress. The team currently sits seventh in the Constructors’ Championship, trailing Aston Martin by just one point. Hulkenberg delivered his first-ever Formula 1 podium at Silverstone, while teammate Bortoleto impressed with a sixth-place finish in Hungary.

The sponsorship setback will not alter on-track competitiveness, but it underscores the broader tension between global F1 commercial deals and varying national laws. Sauber previously partnered with Alfa Romeo before taking on Stake as its headline sponsor in 2024, and has already faced restrictions in other jurisdictions such as the United States and China.

Dutch GP and Wider Sponsorship Landscape

The 2025 Dutch Grand Prix, which marks the penultimate running of the event before its expected departure from the F1 calendar in 2026, will unfold under heavy regulatory scrutiny, according to racingnews365.com. Since returning in 2021, Zandvoort has become a highlight of the F1 season, especially for home fans of Max Verstappen.

Yet the spotlight this year is as much on sponsorship rules as it is on racing. Several other F1 outfits maintain commercial ties with gambling companies—Red Bull with PokerStars, McLaren with Allwyn, and Williams with Super Group’s Betway and Jackpot City brands. Under Dutch law, none of those gambling-related logos can appear on cars, suits, or helmets during the Zandvoort weekend.

The KSA has consistently emphasized its role in maintaining strict boundaries. Last week, it warned that any violation would be considered the promotion of illegal gambling activity. Event organizers and the Formula 1 management have pledged to abide by these regulations.