FDJ selects former Ladbrokes and Tabcorp exec as new Sporting Group CEO

French lottery giant Française des Jeux (FDJ) has recruited sportsbook trading veteran Andy Wright to become the new CEO of its Sporting Group subsidiary. Sporting Group manages B2C spread betting outfit Sporting Index and B2B sportsbook technology provider Sporting Solutions and was acquired by FDJ in 2019 for an undisclosed fee. Wright began his gambling career back in 2005 as head of trading for Spreadex and has held management roles at a number of leading operators including Stan James, Betclic and Ladbrokes. Most recently, Wright was executive general manager of wagering at Australian behemoth Tabcorp, where he spent four years in Sydney. Wright has been headhunted to replace Simon Trim, who spent 23 years with the company, including the last five as chief executive. Trim will support the business as a special advisor to the new CEO over the next few months.

Xavier Etienne, FDJ EVP technology and international, said: “I would like to thank Simon for his dedication and stewardship over the years and the achievements of Sporting until today, building strong brands and making an impact on its markets. “FDJ Group respects his decision and believes leading a business such as Sporting Group with its exciting plans for the future requires strong experience in the industry. “Andy has a unique blend of skills in many relevant areas for Sporting Group and FDJ. Along with his operational capabilities and recognised leadership, he is the perfect fit for us to further enhance the execution of our strategy,” he added. Sporting Solutions provides sportsbook technology services to FDJ and more than 40 other operators in regulated markets. Wright commented: “I am delighted to join Sporting Group at this exciting period of its evolution. I have admired its excellence of pricing, trading and risk management for many years and how it has leveraged this capability and the Sporting Index brand awareness to expand its B2B operation with Sporting Solutions across the globe.”