The Swedish government has announced the appointment of Peter Knutsson as the new director general of the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen).
Knutsson, who currently serves as the advertising ombudsman, is set to assume the role on 17 August 2026. He will hold the six-year post until 31 August 2032.
Knutsson will bring a portfolio of experience in public administration, consumer protection and regulatory roles. Since August 2024, he has overseeing advertising standards in Sweden as part of his ombudsman role.
Previously, he held the position of Head of Unit at the Ministry of Finance and has worked with the European Commission. Additionally, Knutsson has provided advisory services to the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority.
A trained lawyer with more than 20 years of managerial experience, Knutsson specialised in consumer legislation and related policy fields.
‘This will be very good for the authority’
The appointment comes during a period of heightened scrutiny of Sweden’s gambling market with recent data indicating that nearly one in six Swedes engaged in online gambling activities in 2025.
At the same time, the government has been progressing amendments to the Gambling Act aimed at strengthening its ability to target unlicensed operators. Authorities have also taken more direct action against illegal gambling, with police recently dismantling an unlicensed operation.
Madelaine Tunudd, chairwoman of the Gambling Authority, welcomed Knutsson’s appointment.
“With the solid experience Peter Knutsson has from, among other things, the Ministry of Finance, consumer affairs and most recently the Advertising Ombudsman, this will be very good for the authority.”
Johan Röhr, the current acting director general, confirmed he would oversee the transition and assist Knutsson to ensure a seamless start in his new role.
“I welcome the government’s decision on a new director general for the Swedish Gambling Authority and will ensure that Peter Knutsson receives a good introduction in my handover as acting director general.”
Knutsson will take over from the acting leadership that has directed Spelinspektionen through recent periods of regulatory and enforcement activity.
Original article: https://igamingbusiness.com/people/people-moves/swedish-gambling-authority-appoints-new-director-general/
