Dutch GP rules force Sauber’s name change over gambling sponsorship

Sauber’s Formula 1 team, officially known as Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber, will compete under a different name at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix.

Dutch laws prohibit any visible gambling-related advertising at sporting events unless the provider holds a licence in the Netherlands.

Stake, the team’s title sponsor, does not have such a licence. As a result, the team must remove its Stake branding and instead promote Kick more prominently during the Zandvoort race weekend.

The Dutch gambling authority, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), emphasized that the rule applies to all teams, regardless of their country of origin, and includes logos on cars, driver suits, helmets, and any other materials.

Even licensed operators are restricted from advertising in connection to online gambling,

Previous issues with Stake branding

This requirement is not new for Sauber. Last year, the team was also urged to strip its Stake branding at the Dutch GP, though it initially stayed with the original branding.

The new directive ensures the team complies this time.

Sauber’s name change takes place as the team is performing well in the Constructors’ Championship - they are currently seventh, just one point behind Aston Martin.

Their drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, have been delivering strong results, including Hulkenberg first F1 podium at Silverstone and Bortoleto’s sixth place in Hungary.

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