In this week's Weekend Report, iGB highlights notable developments including a footballer’s ban for betting, a new CEO at Broadway Gaming, and a cancer support initiative launched by Light & Wonder.
Dutch footballer Osman Foyo has received a five-month ban for violating betting regulations. Foyo, a player for AFC Wimbledon in English League One, placed 252 bets on matches from October 29, 2023, to March 28, 2025. Per the English Football Association's rules, players are prohibited from betting on football, and those who violate this rule face fines and suspensions. Of his five-month ban, four months have been suspended, meaning he will only serve a one-month suspension. He is also required to pay a fine of £1,000.
Broadway Gaming has announced the appointment of Mark Cleary as its new CEO. Cleary, previously the chief operations officer for over eight years, takes over from founder David Butler, who will shift to the role of executive chairman. The company stated that under Cleary's leadership, Broadway has become the UK's largest independent online bingo operator, and he has played a critical role in the company's growth and operational success.
Fiona Hickey has also been appointed the managing director at Games Inc. Hickey steps into her new role after spending six years with Push Gaming and bringing over 15 years of iGaming experience. In her new position, Hickey aims to expand the studio’s distribution, increase game output, and enhance its platform. "I am excited to be leading such a talented team at a really pivotal moment for Games Inc," Hickey remarked.
In Denmark, the gambling regulator Spillemyndigheden has kicked off a campaign to promote awareness of the StopSpillet helpline. Targeting men in their 30s and 40s, the campaign aims to encourage those who may find it challenging to seek help. Since its launch in January 2019, StopSpillet has facilitated nearly 4,000 conversations with players and their families. Anders Dorph, the director of Spillemyndigheden, emphasized the campaign's intent to highlight what individuals risk losing by allowing gambling to take over their lives.
Light & Wonder has launched a cancer support campaign titled “Gaming vs Cancer” in collaboration with various organizations. The initiative aims to raise funds, awareness, and support for cancer research, care, and community programs, with Global Gaming Women among the partners. Light & Wonder will run a month-long fundraising effort benefiting the American Cancer Society, matching donations up to $10,000 through the Light & Wonder Game Changers for Good portal. Shannon Demus, CFO Gaming Americas at Light & Wonder, stated that as a leading global games company, they acknowledge their responsibility and opportunity to effect meaningful change in their communities.
