Fake Ronaldinho Deal Exposes Shadowy Online Casino Network

What began as a glossy branding story featuring a high-profile partnership between soccer legend Ronaldinho and gambling company MyStake turned into something far more troubling. The supposed chief executive behind the deal, Andres Markou, appears to be a decoy for the true owners of the company, while photographs circulating online, including the widely shared meeting with Ronaldinho, show signs of digital manipulation.

Many Online Casinos Operate Without Proper Licenses

A recent report by The Guardian delved into this highly unusual situation, drawing attention to MyStake and a broader network of online casinos often operating outside the reach of regulators. These platforms, often registered in offshore jurisdictions such as Curaçao, exist in a grey zone where oversight is limited and accountability is difficult to enforce.

As these companies often lack licenses in key jurisdictions such as the UK, they do not follow the same consumer protection rules as regulated operators. MyStake reportedly operates as part of a broader network that includes brands like Velobet, Goldenbet, and Rolletto. Combined, they attract millions of monthly users. Many of these are players who aim to sidestep traditional restrictions and security measures.

Some clients have faced severe consequences. Players report delayed withdrawals, shifting verification demands, and mounting losses. Without adequate safeguards, one user reported a cycle that began with small deposits and quickly spiraled out of control, ending in tens of thousands lost after attempts to cash out were repeatedly delayed. In unregulated environments, such complaints rarely lead to resolution.

Aggressive Marketing Often Overshadows Regulated Alternatives

The shadowy leadership structure further fuels the controversy surrounding MyStake, especially after a source close to Ronaldinho reportedly confirmed that the partnership was not real. Corporate records linked to the network show connections to multiple entities that operate across different countries. Some investigations have suggested ties to companies and individuals based in Eastern Europe.

The operation, centered on Curaçao-based operator Santeda International BV, is extensive, with billions in annual revenue. Aggressive marketing and affiliate networks steer users towards its platforms, and tax obligations are minimal due to its offshore status. This combination of factors means that the operator can invest more in customer acquisition, giving it a competitive edge.

Regulators have struggled to keep pace, as blocking individual sites often leads to new ones appearing under different names. International enforcement activities remain mired in legal challenges, while the digital business model allows companies to shift their operations easily. Meanwhile, new tactics such as celebrity endorsements, polished branding, and now even deepfaked partnerships continue to evolve.