Pioneer in Latin American Gaming Regulation Dies at 74

Remembering Manuel San Román: A Pillar of the Latin American Gaming Sector

In the dynamic landscape of Latin American gaming, one name stood out as a beacon of expertise and leadership: Manuel San Román Benavente. As a former General Director of Casino Games and Slot Machines in Peru and a revered figure in the region’s gaming sector, San Román’s recent passing has left a profound void in the industry. In this tribute, we commemorate his illustrious career, his instrumental role in shaping gaming regulation, and his lasting impact on the Latin American gaming community.

At the age of 74, Manuel San Román Benavente bid farewell to the world in his hometown of Lima, leaving behind a legacy that reverberates throughout the Latin American gaming landscape. His tenure as the General Director of Casino Games and Slot Machines in Peru, spanning from 2006 to March 2022, marked a transformative era in the regulation and formalization of the gaming sector in the country. Under his stewardship, the Directorate spearheaded initiatives to formalize the land-based gaming industry, combat illegal gambling activities, and enhance tax compliance—a testament to San Román’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability in gaming.

Throughout his tenure, San Román’s contributions extended beyond the borders of Peru, earning him recognition as a leading authority in Latin American gaming regulation. His participation in webinars organized and prestigious industry events, underscored his dedication to fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the gaming community. In 2024, San Román embarked on a new chapter in his career as the Compliance Director of Apuesta Total, a prominent sports betting operator in Peru, further cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in the industry.

In his final interview, San Román reflected on the monumental strides made by Peruvian authorities in regulating iGaming in 2023—a testament to his visionary leadership and unwavering advocacy for industry advancement. Despite the challenges that lie ahead in implementing licensing processes for operators, San Román remained optimistic about the prospects of a regulated and transparent gaming ecosystem in Peru. His profound insights and unwavering dedication to the industry serve as an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and guide industry professionals across Latin America.

News of Manuel San Román’s passing sent shockwaves through social networks and industry circles, eliciting an outpouring of tributes and condolences from colleagues, friends, and admirers. As we bid farewell to a titan of the gaming sector, we honor his memory as a driving force behind the professionalization and regulation of gaming in Latin America. From the editorial team at Gamingo News, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones, cherishing the indelible mark he left on the industry and the countless lives he touched during his remarkable journey.