Stake Pulls Out of Irish Market Amid Regulatory Pressure

Stake has now blocked Irish users from accessing its platform after talks with the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI).

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The move comes only two months after the regulator introduced its new licensing system, shifting oversight of the gambling sector from the Revenue Commissioners to a framework built around integrity and player protection.

The company is expected to apply the same geo‑fencing measures it previously used in the UK, where its licence was removed in March 2025.  

In a statement to the Irish Times, the GRAI explained: “Operators, including two major prediction markets and a major international online gambling platform, have geo‑blocked their services, which means that they have voluntarily restricted access to their platforms for users from Ireland.” The regulator did not name the platforms, but Stake has long described itself as “the world’s largest online casino and sportsbook.” 

Reports also note that prediction market operators Kalshi and Polymarket have recently blocked Irish users, adding to the list of platforms exiting the market. 

The GRAI confirmed it is working with those who have geo‑blocked to ensure refunds are processed: “The GRAI is working closely with operators who have geo‑blocked to ensure that consumers in Ireland are promptly refunded all monies deposited with these operators.”

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Stake continues to jam with regulators around the world

The Irish Times report comes just days after the Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority and regulators from other 24 states under Nigeria’s Federation of State Gaming Regulators,  banned the Curaçao‑licensed firm from operating in the country. The bodies cited repeated ignored warnings that date back two years.

Stake’s name has also surfaced in the UK, where its ongoing sponsorship of Everton FC remains controversial, according to SBC News. Although the bookmaker shifted its branding from the front of the club’s shirt to the sleeve to comply with the Premier League’s new advertising rules, its continued presence has drawn criticism.

Entain also urged Everton to cut ties with Stake last month, highlighting that it is one of several unlicensed operators still visible in the league.

Ireland now joins Nigeria and the UK as recent jurisdictions where regulators have moved against the platform. Yet Stake has also tried to show progress, introducing geo‑blocking measures and securing licences in markets such as Denmark, Argentina, and Mexico. 

For Irish users attempting to log in, the site now displays a clear message: “Due to licensing restrictions, access to Stake from your current location is not available.”

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