This week’s industry roundup features a range of notable developments from across the iGaming sector. The highlights include swift action from FanDuel regarding a user’s conduct, Push Gaming’s strategic entry into the US market, the launch of new slots developer Celestar, a key appointment at Bragg Gaming, and a significant partnership extension for Veikkaus.

FanDuel Takes Action Against User Over Athlete Heckle

Flutter-owned FanDuel has reportedly banned a bettor following an incident involving the heckling of US Olympic star Gabby Thomas at a recent track event in Philadelphia. Thomas posted on social media platform X, detailing how a man had followed her around the track, shouting personal insults during the Grand Slam Track event. The man in question, known online as mr100kday and describing himself as “The Track and Field Bully,” subsequently posted a video online claiming his actions “made my parlay win” and shared a screenshot of a $1,000 parlay bet on FanDuel. In response, FanDuel stated, as reported by iGaming Times, that threatening or harassing athletes is “unacceptable and has no place in sports,” confirming that the customer’s account has been blocked and they are “no longer able to wager with FanDuel.”

Push Gaming Enters US Market with BetMGM

Online casino games developer Push Gaming has officially launched its titles in the US market through a strategic partnership with BetMGM. Push Gaming has stated that its content, including popular titles such as Big Bamboo and 10 Flaming Bisons, is now live with BetMGM in Michigan. The agreement also includes a commitment from Push Gaming to develop new online games specifically for BetMGM, building on an existing deal between the two parties that covers operations in Ontario, Canada. Push Gaming’s Chief Operating Officer, Andy Bentley, expressed, as reported by iGaming Times, the company’s excitement to be live in the US, highlighting Michigan as a “hugely important and vibrant market” and expressing pride in the exclusive launch with BetMGM.

Celestar Launches with MGA Licence

In Europe, online slots developer Celestar has announced its official launch, having secured a B2B licence from the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). Headquartered in Malta, Celestar is actively seeking partnerships with operators, aggregators, and platforms, with a focus on markets in Europe and further afield. The company operates under the leadership of several industry veterans with over 20 years of experience, including CEO Vassilis Trochalidis. Trochalidis conveyed, as reported by iGaming Times, that Celestar’s goal is to craft slots that are not just games but immersive experiences, aiming for titles that players will return to time and again. He also stated a commitment to bringing fresh ideas to the market, with engaging features and themes designed to resonate across borders.

Bragg Gaming Appoints Scott Milford as Executive Vice President of Group Content

Bragg Gaming Group has announced the appointment of Scott Milford as its new executive vice president of group content. In his new role, Milford will be responsible for leading strategy, development, and delivery across Bragg’s in-house studios. He will also guide relationships with partner developers through the Powered by Bragg programme. Milford brings extensive experience to the role, having worked in gaming for over 25 years, including previous stints at notable companies such as Aristocrat Leisure Limited, Konami Group, and Aruze Gaming. Milford expressed, as reported by iGaming Times, that Bragg’s relentless focus on innovation and excellence is “unlike anything I’ve seen,” characterising the company as one that “doesn’t just follow trends, it sets them.” He conveyed his excitement to help elevate Bragg’s world-class teams and partners to new heights.

Veikkaus Extends Partnership with Finnish Football Association

Veikkaus, the Finnish state operator, has extended its long-term partnership with the Finnish Football Association until 2030. The comprehensive deal covers both Finland’s national teams and club competitions in the country. Under the terms of the agreement, Veikkaus will continue its role as a main partner and betting partner for the duration of the partnership. The operator has a long-standing relationship with the Finnish FA, having worked together for more than 85 years. Veikkaus CEO Olli Sarekoski stated, as reported by iGaming Times, that the agreement is “very important and meaningful” to the company, highlighting the “long, shared history” between Veikkaus and domestic football that will continue. He noted that Finnish football is currently on the rise, and together with the Finnish FA, they can continue to offer Finns “great emotions and experiences.”

This week’s industry roundup showcases a wide array of activities across the iGaming sector, from responsible gaming enforcement to strategic market entries, key appointments, and long-term partnerships, all indicating a dynamic and evolving industry landscape.