LeoVegas Group has turned a new page with Mattias Wedar stepping in as CEO, following the departure of company co-founder Gustaf Hagman. After 14 years at the helm, Hagman officially exited on June 16, marking the end of a tenure that transformed the Swedish startup into a major player in the global iGaming market.
Hagman co-founded LeoVegas in 2011 alongside Robin Ramm-Ericson. From the early days of Sweden’s unregulated market to expansion across Europe and a $600 million acquisition by MGM Resorts in 2022, Hagman led the charge.
Reflecting on the journey, he called LeoVegas “one of the greatest adventures of my life,” and said the timing was right for new leadership. “LeoVegas is now stronger than ever as part of the MGM family. It’s the right strategic moment to pass the baton.”
Wedar Brings Deep Tech Roots and iGaming Experience
Wedar, who joined LeoVegas in 2019, brings a tech-first approach to the role. Previously the Chief Product and Technology Officer and Deputy CEO, he’s credited with helping shape the company’s digital backbone and drive product innovation.
Before LeoVegas, he led Gametek and held senior roles at Mr Green and Nordic digital firm Eniro. His appointment signals a continued focus on tech-driven growth and international expansion.
“I’m honored to take on the CEO role,” Wedar said. “We’ve built something special, and I see enormous potential as we continue growing our presence in regulated markets worldwide.”
Strategic Moves Fuel Global Expansion
Under Hagman, LeoVegas rolled out its proprietary Rhino platform and made high-impact acquisitions including Push Gaming in 2023 and Tipico’s U.S. sportsbook operations in 2024. Those deals gave LeoVegas a foothold in key American states—Colorado, Iowa, Ohio, and New Jersey—and access to Tipico’s tech and trading infrastructure across the U.S., Europe, and South America.
Earlier this year, the company also opened a second UK office in Leeds, expanding its presence in one of its core markets.
MGM’s Confidence in the New Leadership
Gary Fritz, president of MGM Resorts International Interactive, praised Hagman’s leadership and welcomed Wedar’s promotion. “Gustaf’s vision and LeoVegas’s market expertise laid the foundation for growth,” said Fritz. “We’re confident Mattias will continue driving innovation and international success.”
With Wedar now at the helm, LeoVegas appears poised to push deeper into regulated markets, broaden its product offering, and stay competitive in the fast-evolving iGaming and sports betting sectors.
