LeoVegas Group has ushered in a new era with Mattias Wedar’s appointment as its CEO. Wedar, a significant figure at LeoVegas since 2019, succeeds Gustaf Hagman, the co-founder and CEO for over 12 years. Hagman officially left on June 16, 2025, having transformed the company from a startup to a renowned iGaming operator.
Wedar, previously serving as Chief Product and Technology Officer and Deputy CEO, now leads LeoVegas in its quest for growth within the global online casino and sports betting sectors. His appointment comes after a major expansion period, especially following MGM Resorts International’s acquisition of LeoVegas in 2022.
Gustaf Hagman’s Departure Marks the End of an Era
Hagman’s departure after 14 years is significant for LeoVegas, marking the end of a period where the company rose from being a challenger to a global leader in the iGaming industry. Reflecting on his time, 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.”
Under his leadership, LeoVegas developed its proprietary platform, Rhino, and made key acquisitions, like game studio Push Gaming and Tipico’s U.S. sportsbook operations. These strategic steps positioned the company for continued growth and secured its presence in Europe and America.
Hagman’s decision to step down comes as LeoVegas is set for further expansion under MGM. He expressed confidence in Wedar’s capacity to elevate the company, saying, “Mattias has been an invaluable asset from day one, and I am confident he is the right person to take the Group to new heights.”
Mattias Wedar Steps Into the CEO Role
Mattias Wedar, with six years at LeoVegas, is recognized for his expertise in technology and gaming. Before joining LeoVegas, Wedar held management roles at Mr Green, now part of the Evoke group, and brings over a decade of leadership experience at Nordic tech and digital marketing company Eniro.
In his new role, Wedar aims to leverage LeoVegas’s technology-driven base and spur global growth. Under his guidance, the company plans to further develop its products and cement its status as a market leader in online gaming and sports betting. Wedar expressed his enthusiasm for 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 significant milestone in LeoVegas’s recent growth was its acquisition of Tipico’s U.S. sports betting operations. This deal provided access to Tipico’s technology and trading teams across the U.S., South America, and Europe, greatly enhancing its competitive sports betting market capabilities. The acquisition also expanded LeoVegas’s footprint in Colorado, Iowa, Ohio, and New Jersey, where Tipico had a presence.
This strategic move allowed LeoVegas to strengthen its U.S. sports betting portfolio and access a broader customer base. The company’s focus on expanding its global presence, particularly in regulated markets, remains a key strategy.
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 execute MGM’s established growth strategy.
Wedar’s appointment comes as LeoVegas, now part of the MGM family, aims to leverage its technology-driven approach to iGaming. With a focus on innovation and international market expansion, LeoVegas is poised to lead in the global iGaming and sports betting sectors.
A Bright Future for LeoVegas
As Mattias Wedar takes on the CEO role, LeoVegas enters an exciting phase of growth. With an expanded product range, innovation commitment, and global expansion focus, the company is set to build on Gustaf Hagman’s legacy. The future looks promising for LeoVegas, with Wedar
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com