Former Entain CEO Accuses UKGC of Collusion
Former Entain CEO Kenny Alexander and his deputy Lee Feldman filed a lawsuit against the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), accusing the regulator of colluding with 888 Holdings (now Evoke) to block their deal.
Details of the Allegations Against UKGC
Alexander and Feldman claim that the UKGC leaked confidential information to the management of 888 Holdings. According to the plaintiffs, the commission’s chief, Andrew Rhodes, informed Lord Mendelsohn—the chairman of 888—that the company could lose its license if Alexander became CEO. Following this, 888 Holdings issued a press release announcing the termination of talks with the investment group FS Gaming, which owned 6.5% of the company’s shares.
The lawsuit concerns events in July 2023, when FS Gaming attempted to secure key positions within 888. At the same time, Entain disclosed details of an HMRC investigation related to alleged violations in its former Turkish operations, which also influenced the regulator’s position.
Information at the Center of the Case
Court documents indicate that the 888 press release revealed details that the UKGC investigation was related to Alexander’s and Feldman’s “suitability” to lead the company. The plaintiffs argue that this information should have remained confidential.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 2023 | FS Gaming negotiates with 888 |
| July 2023 | UKGC discusses the situation with Lord Mendelsohn |
| July 2023 | 888 publishes press release and ends negotiations |
| 26 November 2024 | Court approves reporting restrictions on “Operation Incendiary” |
| May 2024 | 888 Holdings changes name to Evoke |
Arguments from Both Sides
Plaintiffs’ Position
- The regulator leaked private information to a competitor.
- The 888 press release was coordinated with the UKGC.
- The information was used to block FS Gaming’s deal.
- The regulator attempted to cover up its actions by obtaining reporting restrictions.
Lawyer David Sherborne told the court that the regulator acted “in concert” with 888 to prevent Alexander from becoming CEO.
UKGC and Evoke’s Position
- The commission insists it did not disclose confidential information.
- All comments related to factual amendments in documents.
- Statements about potential risks were part of the regulator’s duties.
- The commission maintains there were no leaks regarding criminal matters involving Alexander and Feldman.
The UKGC has stated it will robustly defend its position, while Evoke (formerly 888) declined to comment publicly.
Context of the Legal Case
The court is considering the case against the backdrop of other events involving the former Entain executive. Alexander faces bribery charges, which are not expected to go to trial until 2028. Previously, Entain agreed to pay £615 million under a deferred prosecution agreement with the authorities.