The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has published a new standard on markers of gambling harm proposed by the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) back...
The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has announced the appointment of Pierre Tournier as interim Secretary General following the departure of long-serving chief Maarten Haijer.
Tournier is expected to step into the role on September 1, 2026, with Haijer leaving the position after 13 years of leading the EGBA. Regarding Tournier, he first joined the association in November 2025 as senior director and previously held roles at the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA).
Tournier commented on his appointment:
“I would like to pay tribute to Maarten for his outstanding work. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy, and his name will always be synonymous with EGBA. These are big shoes to fill, and I am deeply honored by the confidence both he and our members have shown in me. I take on the role at a pivotal moment: Europe’s regulatory landscape is evolving quickly, and the growth of the illegal market remains the biggest threat to players and to the regulated sector alike – combating it will be central to our work.”
Additionally, the EGBA recognized Haijer’s role in ensuring a safe, regulated, and competitive gambling market in Europe.
Haijer shared:
“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. I leave the association in a strong position and in very capable hands, and I am confident Pierre and the team will build on the momentum of recent years.”
As the appointment is on an interim basis, the EGBA hasn’t yet revealed whether Tournier’s candidacy is being considered for a permanent role.
