Kenny Alexander and Lee Feldman file media challenge against UKGC

Kenny Alexander and Lee Feldman have initiated legal proceedings against the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), alleging a “misuse of private information.”

The former CEO and Chairman of GVC Holdings (now Entain Plc) are pursuing their case under “Part-53 of the Media and Communications Claims.”

London-based law firm Slateford represents Alexander and Feldman in this matter. While details of the allegations are still under wraps, this is not the first instance of friction between the parties involved.

Last year, FS Gaming, an investment firm led by Alexander, sought to gain control of 888 Holdings (formerly Evoke Plc) by acquiring a 6.5% stake in the London Stock Exchange-listed gambling group.

The bold acquisition attempt triggered a UKGC investigation due to concerns over an ongoing inquiry into alleged historical bribery related to Entain’s former Turkish subsidiary, Headlong.

Following FS Gaming’s bid, 888’s board grew cautious, especially as Alexander proposed taking the CEO role, with Feldman potentially assuming the role of chairman. FS Gaming sought clarification, but 888 reported that it received only “basic assurances,” prompting the UKGC to review 888’s operating licenses. In response, 888’s board unanimously ended discussions on the acquisition, citing the ongoing review and low probability of regulatory approval for the proposed leadership changes.

Shortly after Alexander’s attempt to acquire 888 fell through, Entain reached a £585 million settlement with the Crown Prosecution Service over a bribery investigation, incurring corporate losses of £900 million on its 2023 accounts. This investigation related to Entain’s Turkish operations, which were divested in 2017. As part of the settlement, Entain committed to payments to HMRC.

At the time, Chairman Barry Gibson stated:

This legacy issue relates to a business divested by a past management team six years ago. Since then, the company has transformed, and the DPA process highlights just how much GVC has evolved into today’s Entain. We are focused on regulated markets and recognized for our strong corporate governance across the business.