Pierre Tournier Appointed Interim Secretary General of the EGBA

Maarten Haijer leaves his position as Secretary General of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) after thirteen years in the role and nearly two decades working with the organization. Pierre Tournier, current Senior Director of the EGBA and with over fifteen years in the industry, will assume the role of interim Secretary General starting September 1, 2026. This transition marks a significant change in the management of the leading pan-European organization for online gaming and betting.

EGBA: From Consolidation to New Regulatory Challenges

The EGBA, based in Brussels, established itself during Haijer's leadership as a reference in the European online gaming sector. Under his direction since 2013, the association deepened collaboration with European Union institutions and national bodies, leading initiatives to promote regulated, safe, and competitive markets. During his tenure, the EGBA advocated for the opening of various markets to regulated competition and created the European Safer Gambling Week, an annual event aimed at raising protection standards.

"It has been a privilege to lead the EGBA and work alongside our members, colleagues, regulators, and policymakers towards the common goal of a safe and sustainable online sector in Europe. The European sector has changed almost completely during my time at the EGBA," expressed Maarten Haijer in his farewell message.

Haijer was appointed Director of Regulatory Affairs in 2008 and, from 2013, took on the role of Secretary General. Under his supervision, the leap from startup models to global digital entertainment providers with licenses worldwide occurred. His leadership leaves the association in a strong position to face upcoming challenges.

Pierre Tournier: Profile and Priorities as Interim Secretary General

With over fifteen years of experience in sector representation, Pierre Tournier has previously held senior positions at the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). Since joining the EGBA in November 2025, he has led coordination with national and international bodies and managed the association's response to the rise of illegal online gambling in Europe.

As interim Secretary General, Tournier will be responsible for coordinating the EGBA's work on the main regulatory axes affecting the regulated online gaming sector in Europe. Among his priorities will be combating the illegal market and continuing to promote high industry standards and better regulatory practices.

"I want to acknowledge the exceptional work of Maarten, who leaves an indelible mark on the EGBA. I take office at a crucial time: Europe is undergoing significant regulatory transformations, and the illegal market poses the greatest threat to players and the regulated sector," stated Pierre Tournier upon assuming the interim Secretary General role.

Tournier's experience spans various areas and jurisdictions, providing strategic insight to consolidate the sector's representation in the face of increasing legislative pressure and the dynamism of illegal actors.

Evolution Under Maarten Haijer and the Current Context

During Haijer's tenure, the EGBA supported the opening of national markets to a multiple licensing regime and promoted dialogue with regulators and legislators both in Brussels and at the local level. Among the flagship initiatives is the European Safer Gambling Week, aimed at raising awareness of responsible practices.

The current context presents expanded challenges: the proliferation of unlicensed operators and institutional pressure on the licensed sector. The EGBA, under Tournier's temporary leadership, will continue to strengthen cooperation with regulators, implementing responses to emerging risks and defending fair competition against illegal actors.

Outlook for the Sector and the EGBA

Tournier’s appointment coincides with a period of accelerated transformation in the European gaming landscape. His mission will be to maintain dialogue with community institutions, apply best practice recommendations, and reinforce the position of the EGBA as the sector's representative in the face of regulatory and commercial challenges. The association emphasizes the importance of maintaining open, safe markets focused on user protection.

Maarten Haijer is expected to announce his next professional steps following his formal exit. Meanwhile, the EGBA is focused on ensuring operational transition and continuing its roadmap regarding standards and sector advocacy.