Former GVC executives launch legal action against UK Gambling Commission

Former GVC Holdings executives Kenny Alexander and Lee Feldman have initiated legal proceedings against the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), alleging the misuse of private information, according to court filings submitted in the UK High Court. The case, represented by London-based law firm Slateford, is rooted in "Part-53 of the Media and Communications Claims," typically invoked in cases involving privacy rights and misuse of personal data.

Alexander, former CEO, and Feldman, former Chairman of GVC Holdings (now Entain Plc), claim that private information was misused in connection with their recent attempted acquisition of a leadership role in 888 Holdings, now Evoke Plc. In mid-2023, Alexander and Feldman’s investment firm, FS Gaming, acquired a 6.5% stake in 888 Holdings and expressed an intention for Alexander to take on the CEO role, while Feldman would serve as Chairman. However, the UKGC raised concerns due to a then-ongoing HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) investigation into alleged bribery in Turkey, tied to GVC’s previous operations there.

The UKGC’s scrutiny led 888 Holdings to reconsider the bid, ultimately determining that the appointments “have no reasonable prospect of being approved.” The regulator’s decision also included a review of 888’s operating licenses, which reportedly played a critical role in the company’s decision to cease acquisition discussions with Alexander and Feldman.

The case is seen as part of a series of legal complications for Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes and Coral. In December 2023, Entain reached a £615 million ($799.7 million) settlement with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) concerning the historic bribery investigation in Turkey. The settlement addressed Entain’s exposure but did not extend to former executives, potentially leaving Alexander and Feldman subject to further investigation. The CPS is reportedly considering additional actions, possibly extending plea deals to certain individuals, although it is unclear which former executives might be affected.

Entain’s current Chairman, Barry Gibson, commented on the CPS settlement at the time, emphasizing Entain’s transformation since its rebranding from GVC. “This legacy issue pertains to a business divested by a past management team six years prior. The company has undergone significant changes since then, and the DPA process has underscored the profound evolution from the GVC of the past to today’s Entain,” Gibson said. He added that Entain remains focused on operations within regulated markets, positioning itself as a leader in corporate governance across its global operations.

Alexander, widely recognized for his role in GVC’s rapid expansion, led the company’s acquisitions of bwin for £1.1 billion in 2016 and Ladbrokes Coral for £4 billion the following year.