Maarten Haijer Steps Down After 13 Years as EGBA Secretary General

The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has appointed Pierre Tournier as interim Secretary General effective 1 September 2026. Maarten Haijer is stepping down from the post after 13 years, having joined the EGBA in 2008 as Director of Regulatory Affairs and rising to Secretary General in 2013. As reported by G3 Newswire, Haijer leaves the association after nearly two decades, during which it became a leading voice in Europe’s online gambling sector.

Haijer deepened EGBA engagement with EU and national institutions. He led the case for safe, well-regulated and competitive multi-licensed markets, helped open several markets to regulated competition, and established the annual European Safer Gambling Week initiative.

Maarten 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. The European sector has changed almost beyond recognition during my time at EGBA – from pioneering start-ups to world-leading digital entertainment providers, with licences across the globe. We have achieved a great deal together, moving the industry forward and helping shape an environment that works far better for players as well, though important challenges remain. 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. I will make an announcement about my future shortly.”

Pierre Tournier’s Sector Experience

Pierre Tournier brings over 15 years of advocacy experience. He previously held senior positions at the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and the Remote Gambling Association (RGA). Since joining EGBA in November 2025, he has led coordination with national and international trade bodies and the association’s response to Europe’s growing illegal online gambling market.

Pierre Tournier said: “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 honoured 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. Alongside this, we will continue our mission to drive high industry standards, promote regulatory best practices, and lead the debates that will shape our industry’s future.”

Where the Focus Shifts

Tournier’s immediate remit centers on the issues the source identifies: the illegal market threat and the push for consistent regulatory standards across Europe. The appointment keeps EGBA positioned to engage institutions on these fronts without disruption.

Reporting: G3 Newswire

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