The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has appointed Pierre Tournier as its interim secretary general, succeeding Maarten Haijer, who has stepped down after nearly two decades with the organization.
Effective 1 September 2026, Tournier, a veteran with 15 years of experience in the industry, had joined EGBA just last November as senior director. Before that, he served as the international director for the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and held the position of director of government relations at the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). His background includes significant engagement with both national and international trade associations, and he has focused on combatting the growth of illegal online gambling, asserting it as a major concern for the regulated sector.
In his initial remarks regarding his new role, Tournier expressed gratitude to Haijer: "I would like to pay tribute to Maarten for his outstanding work. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy." He identified the illegal gambling market as a critical threat to both players and the regulated gaming industry, emphasizing the importance of addressing this issue in his upcoming agenda. Tournier also committed to maintaining high standards in the industry and promoting regulatory best practices while contributing to discussions that will influence the sector's future.
Haijer, who joined EGBA in 2008 and took over as secretary general in 2013, oversaw a significant expansion of the association and its deeper involvement with European Union bodies and national regulators. He led initiatives that promoted safe and well-regulated gaming markets across Europe and was instrumental in establishing the annual European Safer Gambling Week.
Reflecting on his tenure, Haijer remarked, "It has been a privilege to lead EGBA and to work alongside our members, colleagues, partners, regulators, and policymakers towards the common objective of a safe and sustainable online gambling sector in Europe." He also noted the evolution of the European gambling industry during his leadership, highlighting the growth from start-ups to established global digital entertainment providers with licenses worldwide. Haijer was actively involved in discussions around Iceland’s decision to abolish its gambling monopoly and announced that EGBA would release an update to its anti-money laundering guidelines this year.
