Kenny Alexander Sues Entain Over Turkey Bribery Case

Could privileged legal information have been unfairly shared in Entain’s bribery case? Former Entain CEO Kenny Alexander and ex-chairman Lee Feldman have launched legal action against Entain and law firm Addleshaw Goddard (AG). They claim confidential legal advice was improperly shared with UK authorities during the bribery investigation into Entain’s former Turkey operations. The lawsuit could intensify scrutiny on corporate governance in the gambling industry, especially as Entain remains under regulatory pressure.

Kenny Alexander Sues Entain Over Alleged Privileged Information Leak in Turkey Bribery Case

Key Points:

1. Kenny Alexander and Lee Feldman Sue Entain and Addleshaw Goddard

   • The lawsuit alleges privileged legal information was improperly disclosed during the bribery investigation into Entain’s former Turkey business.
   • The ex-executives demand access to all legal advice shared with UK prosecutors.

2. Turkey Bribery Case Led to £615M Settlement with UK Authorities

   • Entain’s former Turkey-facing business was under investigation for bribery and financial misconduct.
   • The company agreed to a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) in 2023, paying £615 million in penalties.

3. Entain and Addleshaw Goddard Deny Allegations, Dismissing Claims as Baseless

   • Entain stated the lawsuit is without merit and will be contested aggressively.
   • AG, citing client confidentiality, refused to comment on the claims.

Legal Battle Erupts as Ex-Entain Executives Accuse Company of Leaking Privileged Information

Former Entain CEO Kenny Alexander and ex-chairman Lee Feldman have filed a lawsuit against Entain and its legal advisors, Addleshaw Goddard (AG). They claim privileged legal information was improperly shared with UK prosecutors during the investigation into Entain’s former Turkey operations.

The case could have significant implications for corporate governance and legal protections in the gambling industry, as it raises questions about attorney-client privilege and information-sharing in regulatory settlements.

What Led to the Lawsuit?

The lawsuit stems from Entain’s 2019 bribery scandal, linked to its former Turkey business. At the time, Entain (then GVC Holdings) owned Headlong Limited, a Turkey-facing online gambling brand.

• In 2017, Entain sold the business to Ropso Malta Limited, severing official ties.
• In 2019, reports emerged that Entain continued benefiting financially from the Turkish operation.
• This led to an HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) investigation into potential corporate offenses under the UK Bribery Act 2010.
• By 2023, Entain reached a Deferred Prosecution Agreement (DPA) with UK authorities, agreeing to pay £615 million in penalties and donations.

Alexander and Feldman’s Legal Argument

Alexander and Feldman argue that as former executives, they were clients of Addleshaw Goddard (AG) alongside Entain.

Their legal claim states:
“The claimants understand that Entain and/or AG may have disclosed privileged materials to HMRC and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) without consent.”

According to their lawsuit, AG should have sought their approval before sharing any privileged legal advice. They are now demanding access to all legal communications related to the Turkey case.

Entain’s Response: Claims Have No Merit

Entain has dismissed the lawsuit, stating:

“Entain considers the claim to be without merit and it will contest it robustly.”

AG also refused to comment, citing client confidentiality obligations.

Regulatory Pressure and Failed 888 Takeover Attempt

Alexander’s legal troubles with Entain follow his failed bid to take over 888 Holdings in 2023.

• FS Gaming, an investment group backed by Alexander, Feldman, and former Entain CFO Stephen Morana, acquired a 6.57% stake in 888 Holdings.
• The plan was to appoint Alexander as CEO, Feldman as chairman, and Morana as CFO.
• However, the UK Gambling Commission intervened, citing concerns over the Turkey bribery case.

As a result, 888 Holdings terminated talks, leading Alexander and Feldman to sue the UKGC, alleging the regulator misused their private information.

Their lawsuit claims the UKGC’s actions caused them “damage, distress, and embarrassment.”

What’s Next for Entain?

Since Alexander’s departure in 2020, Entain has faced leadership instability, cycling through three CEOs in four years:

1. Shay Segev (2020–2021) → Left for DAZN.
2. Jette Nygaard-Andersen (2021–2023) → Stepped down in December 2023.
3. Gavin Isaacs (2023–2024) → Resigned after only five months.

Stella David has resumed the interim CEO role while Entain searches for a permanent leader.

A High-Stakes Legal Fight That Could Impact Corporate Governance

Kenny Alexander’s lawsuit against Entain and Addleshaw Goddard raises serious questions about legal privilege in corporate investigations.

If the court rules in his favor, it could set a precedent on how legal firms handle privileged information in regulatory settlements. However, if Entain successfully defends itself, it could reinforce companies’ rights to manage investigations independently.

With Entain facing continued leadership changes and regulatory scrutiny, the gambling giant must navigate legal battles while maintaining investor confidence. The question now is: Will this lawsuit expose new details about Entain’s controversial past, or will it be dismissed like Alexander’s previous legal challenges?