Trump accused of promoting Stake, an illegal casino
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15 Apr 2026 •
Reading time: 2 minutes
A recent social media post by Donald Trump has sparked an unexpected controversy. He shared an AI-generated image featuring the logo of Stake, an online gambling platform that is unauthorised in the United States and in many European countries.
A viral image that raises questions
Donald Trump recently shared an AI-generated image depicting him alongside Dana White, president of the UFC, in front of the White House, which had been transformed into a fighting arena for the occasion. At the bottom of the image is a clearly identifiable logo: that of Stake.
This online casino and sports betting platform has established itself in recent years as a major player in the sector, notably thanks to its use of cryptocurrencies. However, in the United States, Stake holds no licence to legally offer its services.
It remains accessible via alternative mechanisms, notably sweepstakes-style models, which allow certain restrictions to be circumvented. This model is currently the subject of several legal challenges, notably in Los Angeles.
The UFC, Trump and Stake
Donald Trump has long maintained a close relationship with the UFC and its president, Dana White. He has attended numerous events and enjoys White’s open support. Stake, however, is also linked to the UFC as its official betting partner. This commercial partnership explains the brand’s recurring presence in the world of combat sports.
Stake does not owe its success solely to its sports partnerships. The platform has invested heavily in influencer marketing. Figures such as rapper Drake and streamer Adin Ross have been associated with the brand for a long time. These collaborations have helped to popularise the platform among a young audience.
But this strategy is now under scrutiny. A class-action lawsuit specifically targets these influencers, who are accused of promoting Stake in a misleading manner. According to certain revelations, these personalities are said to have benefited from significant earnings on the platform.
An expanding international strategy
Whilst the US market remains off-limits, Stake is continuing its expansion elsewhere. The company has obtained licences in several countries, including Italy, Brazil and, more recently, Denmark. In 2023, it also acquired Betfair’s licence in Colombia, strengthening its presence in regulated markets.
However, some countries remain opposed to its model, particularly because of the use of cryptocurrencies. This is the case in Belgium, where approval seems unlikely.