Gambling ad featuring Hamilton banned after concerns of influencing children

Hamilton’s image appeared in an advertisement posted on X ahead of the 2025 British Grand Prix by a gambling firm. It has now been banned over concerns that it could influence children.

The UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) announced its ruling, along with another concerning an ad featuring Chelsea’s logo.

Since then, the gambling firm has removed all content featuring mainstream athletes and was warned against using them in the future.

It was argued that Hamilton appeals to an older audience. However, it was ruled otherwise because of his large social media following among the youth, being in the 'F1 24' video game and featuring on a programme of BBC's CBeebie.

The ASA shared on Wednesday: "We considered Sir Lewis Hamilton was a notable star within the sport, with a significant public profile and social media following."

Gambling laws are obviously not the same across the countries on the Formula 1 calendar. For example, Sauber must change its name because of its title sponsor Stake during certain race weekends — such as the Belgian or Dutch Grands Prix — due to strict regulations against gambling promotion at sporting events.

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.

Don't forget to follow our Spotify channel as well!