Stake has appointed former Chelsea and Real Madrid footballer Eden Hazard as a global ambassador as the igaming and sportsbook operator expands its marketing activities ahead of the upcoming international football calendar.
Hazard, who represented clubs including Chelsea and Real Madrid during his playing career, will work with Stake on promotional and fan engagement initiatives connected to the operator’s sportsbook and igaming platform. The partnership will involve digital campaigns and brand activations across multiple channels during the 2026 football season.
The former Belgian international played 126 matches for the Belgium national team and served as captain from 2015 to 2023. During his career, Hazard won major club competitions including the UEFA Champions League, two Premier League titles, two La Liga titles and two UEFA Europa League trophies. Belgium finished third at the 2018 FIFA World Cup during his tenure with the national side.
Stake operates an online sportsbook and igaming platform offering sports betting and casino products across several markets. The company has established a number of partnerships with sports figures and teams as part of its brand promotion strategy within the global igaming sector.
Hazard maintains a large social media following, with more than 58 million followers across platforms including Instagram, Facebook, X and Weibo. Through the ambassador agreement, Stake intends to incorporate the former footballer into marketing campaigns designed to reach football audiences during the upcoming international tournament cycle.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and will feature 48 national teams, representing the largest edition of the tournament to date. Betting operators and igaming companies frequently align marketing initiatives with major international sporting events, using partnerships with athletes and sports personalities to support audience engagement around global competitions.
Stake’s Chief Marketing Officer Akhil Sarin said: “With the 2026 World Cup set to be the biggest football tournament in history, this is a defining moment for fans and brands alike. Eden Hazard is a player who embodies creativity, flair and big-stage performance – qualities that resonate strongly with our global community.
“Eden’s legacy in world football speaks for itself. He has performed at the very highest level of the game and understands exactly what it means to deliver when the world is watching. As we build towards an unforgettable summer of football, we’re proud to welcome him to Stake as a global ambassador.
“His worldwide appeal and deep connection with fans across Europe, Asia and beyond make him the perfect addition to our ambassadorial roster as we continue to strengthen Stake’s position as the home of football entertainment.”
Hazard said: “I’m really excited to be joining Stake at such an important time in the football calendar. The World Cup remains the pinnacle of our sport – the dream every player chases – and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience it on some of the biggest stages.
“Football has given me so many incredible memories, from lifting domestic and European trophies, to representing my country as captain, and making many friends along the way. Now, in this next chapter, I can’t wait to engage with fans in new and meaningful ways, sharing insights, excitement, and the pure joy of football together with Stake.
“Football fans worldwide are incredibly passionate and dedicated, and I’m delighted to collaborate with a brand that truly understands and celebrates that energy, while delivering innovative, community-focused experiences. Let’s make the journey one to remember!”
