LeoVegas Group has entered a new phase with the appointment of Mattias Wedar as its new CEO. Wedar, who has been a key player at LeoVegas since 2019, takes over from Gustaf Hagman, the company’s co-founder and CEO for more than 12 years. Hagman officially stepped down on June 16, 2025, after leading the company through its transformation from a startup to an internationally recognized iGaming operator.

Wedar, who previously held roles as Chief Product and Technology Officer and Deputy CEO, is now tasked with leading LeoVegas as it continues its pursuit of growth in the global online casino and sports betting markets. His appointment follows a period of significant expansion for the company, especially under the ownership of MGM Resorts International, which acquired LeoVegas in 2022.

Gustaf Hagman’s Departure Marks the End of an Era

Hagman’s departure after 14 years is a pivotal moment for LeoVegas, marking the end of an era that saw the company evolve from a bold challenger in the iGaming industry to a leading global operator. Reflecting on his tenure, Hagman expressed pride in the journey, stating, “Founding and leading LeoVegas to become a market leader has been one of the greatest adventures of my life. I am incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished.”

During his leadership, LeoVegas developed its proprietary technology platform, Rhino, and made key acquisitions, such as game studio Push Gaming and Tipico’s U.S. sportsbook operations. These strategic moves positioned the company for continued growth and helped it secure a strong presence in both European and American markets.

Hagman’s decision to step down came at a time when LeoVegas is poised for further expansion under the MGM umbrella. He expressed confidence in Wedar’s ability to take the company to new heights, saying, “Mattias has been an invaluable asset from day one, and I am confident that he is the right person to take the Group to new heights.”

Mattias Wedar Steps Into the CEO Role

Mattias Wedar, who has spent six years with LeoVegas, is known for his deep expertise in both technology and the gaming industry. Prior to joining LeoVegas, Wedar held management roles at Mr Green, which is now part of the Evoke group, and he brings over a decade of experience in leadership positions at Nordic tech and digital marketing company Eniro.

In his new role, Wedar plans to build on LeoVegas’s strong technology-driven foundation and accelerate its global growth. Under his leadership, the company aims to further develop its product offerings and strengthen its position as a market leader in online gaming and sports betting. Wedar expressed his excitement about the future, stating, “The success story that Gustaf and Robin began 14 years ago is stronger than ever, and we see many exciting opportunities on the horizon. I am honored to have been entrusted with the challenge of taking on the role of CEO in LeoVegas Group’s new chapter, and I look forward to continuing to lead us toward new milestones.”

Strategic Acquisitions and Expanding Global Reach

One of the key milestones during LeoVegas’s recent growth was its acquisition of Tipico’s U.S. sports betting operations. This deal provided LeoVegas with access to Tipico’s technology and trading teams in the U.S., South America, and Europe, significantly enhancing its capabilities in the competitive sports betting market. The acquisition also expanded LeoVegas’s footprint in Colorado, Iowa, Ohio, and New Jersey, where Tipico had a presence before the sale.

This strategic move allowed LeoVegas to strengthen its U.S. sports betting portfolio and tap into a broader customer base. The company’s continued focus on expanding its global presence, particularly in regulated markets, is a key part of its strategy moving forward.

MGM Resorts Supports LeoVegas’s Growth Under Wedar’s Leadership

Gary Fritz, President at MGM Resorts International Interactive, praised both Hagman and Wedar for their leadership in guiding LeoVegas through its expansion. “Gustaf Hagman’s leadership and LeoVegas Group’s expertise in product development and local market expansion have laid the foundation for positioning both BetMGM and LeoVegas as global leaders in the industry,” Fritz stated. He also expressed confidence that under Wedar’s leadership, LeoVegas will continue to thrive and deliver on MGM’s established growth strategy.

Wedar’s appointment comes as LeoVegas, now part of the MGM family, looks to further capitalize on its technology-driven approach to iGaming. With a strong emphasis on innovation and a commitment to expanding its reach in international markets, LeoVegas is poised to remain at the forefront of the global iGaming and sports betting sectors.

A Bright Future for LeoVegas

As Mattias Wedar assumes the role of CEO, LeoVegas is entering an exciting new phase of growth and development. With an expanded product portfolio, a commitment to innovation, and a focus on global expansion, the company is well-positioned to continue building on the legacy left by Gustaf Hagman. The future looks bright for LeoVegas, and with Wedar at the helm, the company is set to reach new heights in the competitive iGaming and sports betting industries.