Gennadiy Novikov Appointed Head of Ukraine’s PlayCity

Ukraine’s gambling sector is undergoing a significant transformation with the establishment of a new regulatory authority. The government has appointed Gennadiy Novikov to head PlayCity, the agency replacing the disbanded KRAIL. Novikov’s leadership aims to implement stringent reforms, enhance transparency, and combat corruption within the industry. Explore how this appointment and the creation of PlayCity signal a new era for Ukraine’s gambling landscape.

Ukraine Appoints Gennadiy Novikov to Lead New Gambling Regulator PlayCity Amid Reform Efforts

3 Key Points

• Gennadiy Novikov appointed as head of PlayCity, succeeding the dissolved KRAIL.
• PlayCity established to implement state policy and oversee gambling and lottery operations in Ukraine.
• The agency will focus on combating corruption and enhancing regulatory efficiency under Deputy PM Mykhailo Fedorov’s supervision.

In a decisive move to reform its gambling industry, the Ukrainian government has appointed Gennadiy Novikov as the head of PlayCity, the newly established regulatory authority set to replace the Commission for the Regulation of Gambling and Lotteries (KRAIL). This appointment marks a pivotal step in Ukraine’s efforts to enhance oversight and eradicate corruption within the sector.

Background: The Dissolution of KRAIL

KRAIL, the former gambling regulator, faced numerous challenges, including allegations of corruption and inefficiency. Established in 2020 to oversee the legalization of gambling in Ukraine, KRAIL’s tenure was marred by controversies. Notably, in December 2024, KRAIL’s chairman, Ivan Rudyi, was detained over allegations of facilitating operations of a Russian-owned online casino within Ukraine. These incidents eroded public trust and highlighted the need for a more robust regulatory framework.

In response, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed Law No. 9256-d in January 2025, mandating the dissolution of KRAIL and the formation of a new regulatory body. This legislative move aimed to address the shortcomings of KRAIL and set the stage for comprehensive reforms in the gambling industry.

The Emergence of PlayCity

Established on April 1, 2025, PlayCity is designed to serve as a central executive body responsible for implementing state policy in the organization and conduct of gambling and lotteries. Operating under the direct supervision of Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who also heads the Ministry of Digital Transformation, PlayCity is tasked with ensuring that new laws protect Ukrainian gambling licenses, consumers, and the regulatory regime from corruption.

The agency inherits KRAIL’s 61 staff positions and operates from the same premises, ensuring continuity while embarking on a path of reform. With a budget allocation of UAH 160.4 million for 2025, PlayCity is equipped to undertake its mandate effectively.

Gennadiy Novikov: The New Leader

Gennadiy Novikov brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Prior to this appointment, he served as the deputy head of KRAIL, providing him with intimate knowledge of the regulatory landscape and its challenges. His background also includes a tenure at the Ministry of Digital Transformation, where he collaborated closely with Deputy Prime Minister Fedorov. This experience positions Novikov uniquely to lead PlayCity in its mission to overhaul the gambling sector.

Objectives and Reforms

Under Novikov’s leadership, PlayCity aims to implement several key reforms:

1. Combating Corruption: Addressing the corruption issues that plagued KRAIL is a top priority. PlayCity is expected to introduce stricter controls and transparency measures to restore public trust.
2. Digitalization of Licensing: Plans are underway to develop a fully digital licensing system. This initiative seeks to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and ensure equal conditions for all market participants.
3. Online Monitoring Systems: The agency intends to launch nationwide online monitoring systems to track tax revenues and verify compliance among licensees. This move aims to enhance oversight and ensure that operators adhere to regulatory requirements.
4. Blocking Illegal Operators: PlayCity will have the authority to directly block illegal gambling websites and expand the criteria under which licenses can be revoked. This measure is crucial in curbing unlicensed operations and protecting consumers.
5. Advertising Restrictions: In line with recent legislative changes, the agency will enforce stricter advertising regulations, including a near-total ban on gambling advertising, with limited exceptions. Online advertising must not target consumers under the age of 21, and television advertising will be permitted only between 11 pm and 6 am.

Challenges Ahead

While the establishment of PlayCity and Novikov’s appointment are significant steps forward, challenges remain. The agency must navigate the complexities of implementing reforms in a sector that has been resistant to change. Additionally, ensuring that the digitalization efforts are effectively executed will require substantial resources and expertise.

Moreover, the ongoing conflict with Russia adds another layer of complexity. Ensuring that gambling operators with ties to hostile nations are removed from the domestic market is a sensitive and critical task.

The appointment of Gennadiy Novikov as the head of PlayCity marks a new chapter in Ukraine’s gambling industry. With a clear mandate to implement reforms, combat corruption, and enhance regulatory efficiency, Novikov’s leadership is poised to steer the sector toward greater transparency and public trust. As PlayCity embarks on this transformative journey, the eyes of stakeholders, both domestic and international, will be keenly watching the developments in Ukraine’s gambling landscape.