The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has appointed Pierre Tournier as its interim secretary general, taking over from Maarten Haijer, who has served the organization for nearly two decades. Tournier's new position becomes effective on September 1, 2026.
With 15 years of experience in the industry, Tournier joined EGBA in November 2025 as senior director. His background includes roles as the international director for the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and as the director of government relations for the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). He has extensive expertise in collaboration with both national and international trade bodies, focusing on the increasing challenge of illegal online gambling.
"I would like to pay tribute to Maarten for his outstanding work. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy," Tournier remarked about his predecessor. He identified illegal gambling as the most significant threat to both players and the regulated gaming sector and emphasized that addressing this issue will be a primary focus during his tenure. Tournier also committed to maintaining high industry standards, ensuring regulatory best practices, and leading discussions that will influence the future of the industry.
Haijer, who joined the Brussels-based trade association in 2008 and became secretary general in 2013, oversaw substantial growth at EGBA. Under his leadership, the association enhanced its involvement with European Union institutions and national regulators. EGBA acknowledged Haijer for promoting safe, well-regulated, and competitive multi-licensed markets across Europe, and for initiating the annual European Safer Gambling Week.
Reflecting on his time at EGBA, Haijer said, "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 noted the evolution of the European gambling industry during his tenure, mentioning its transformation from pioneering start-ups into leading global digital entertainment providers and highlighted key issues like Iceland's removal of its gambling monopoly and the upcoming publication of updated anti-money laundering guidelines by EGBA this year.
