EGBA Appoints Pierre Tournier as Interim Secretary General from September 2026

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has appointed Pierre Tournier as Interim Secretary General, effective from September 1, 2026, following the departure of Maarten Haijer. With this transition, the association maintains its focus on advocating for regulated markets and responsible gambling within Europe.

Change in the Secretary General of EGBA

Maarten Haijer leaves the Secretary General position of EGBA after nearly twenty years with the institution. He joined in 2008 as Director of Regulatory Affairs and took on the Secretary General role in 2013. Under his leadership, EGBA established itself as a reference point in the European online gaming industry, expanding relationships with European Union institutions and national bodies, while advocating for competitive and secure multi-licensed market models. During this period, the organization contributed to the opening of new regulated markets and launched the European Safer Gambling Week, one of its main sector milestones.

In Haijer's words:

"It has been a privilege to lead EGBA and work alongside our members, colleagues, partners, regulators, and policymakers to create a safe and sustainable online gaming sector in Europe. The industry has changed almost beyond recognition since I started at EGBA: from pioneering startups to global digital entertainment providers. We have made great strides together, and I am confident that Pierre and the team will continue building on the recent momentum."

Haijer will shortly communicate his next professional steps.

Profile and Career of Pierre Tournier in the European Gaming Sector

Pierre Tournier brings 15 years of experience in sector advocacy and institutional affairs, having held leadership positions at the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). Since joining EGBA in November 2025 as Senior Director, he has led strategic initiatives, including coordination with national and international associations and responding to the growth of the illegal online market in Europe.

As Interim Secretary General, he will spearhead EGBA's efforts in addressing the major regulatory challenges in the European online gaming sector, enhancing dialogue with regulators and operators on compliance standards and player protection.

Regulatory Challenges and Priorities Under Pierre Tournier's Management

The association faces a period in which the European regulatory framework is evolving rapidly, and the expansion of the illegal market represents the primary threat to both players and regulated operators. Combating this issue will be a central line of work under Tournier's interim management.

In his public statement following the appointment, Tournier explained:

"I would like to pay tribute to Maarten for his extraordinary work and legacy; his name will always be linked to EGBA. I take on the role at a critical time, with a constantly changing regulatory environment and the growth of the illegal market as the biggest challenge. Our central task will be to raise industry standards, promote better regulatory practices, and lead the debate on the future of the sector."

Perspectives and Continuity for EGBA Members and Associates

The transition aims to ensure strategic continuity in EGBA's priority initiatives, such as promoting responsible gambling and engaging with European legislators. Pierre Tournier's functions will focus on:

• Strengthening measures against illegal online gambling;
• Promoting advanced compliance practices among members;
• Reinforcing the relationship between the sector and national and EU regulators;
• Consolidating EGBA's position as a reference point in educational and social responsibility initiatives.

The association has indicated that Tournier's work in collaboration with various national and international bodies will be crucial in tackling emerging regulatory challenges.

Evolution of the European Gaming Industry and Upcoming Announcements

Under Haijer's leadership, the industry underwent significant transformation, evolving from emerging operators to large multinational players. This context of global competition presents new challenges related to player protection, market integrity, and adaptation to rapidly evolving regulatory frameworks.

Pierre Tournier is expected to maintain the course set by his predecessor, while the association prepares key announcements regarding strategic next steps and possible definitive directional changes in the coming months.