Chelsea have decided to forgo any sponsorship with popular online casino platform Stake, after coming under heavy criticism from the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust (CST).
The Blues had planned a partnership with online casino Stake ahead of next season, that would have the Premier League side display the Stake logo on front of their shirts during matches.
However Chelsea have decided to cancel any potential sponsorship with the company, after their supporters trust expressed concerns over the new deal and specifically the exposure of gambling within the league.
A statement from the Supporters Trust on Thursday read: “The CST is really pleased that, according to recent reports, Chelsea FC has listened to the very serious concerns of the Trust and has acted accordingly. Over 77% of our members disagreed with the use of an online casino & betting company as the primary shirt sponsor, and if these reports are indeed correct, it demonstrates again that supporters can make a monumental difference.”
With a resounding 77% of the supporters trust disagreeing with the new sponsorship for next season, it comes as little surprise that the Blues have decided to cut all ties with any potential partnership.
Gambling sponsors on football shirts are set to be banned by the year 2027 thanks to the new white paper in gambling act, but teams are still permitted to use the sponsors for the next two seasons.
Chelsea will now look elsewhere for a sponsor ahead of next season, but with the 2023/24 Premier League campaign closing in fast the Blues may have limited options this summer.
