Former Entain Executives Take Legal Action Against UK Gambling Commission Over 888 Holdings Takeover
Legal Battle Emerges After Failed Takeover Attempt
Kenny Alexander and Lee Feldman, former executives of Entain, have initiated a civil lawsuit against the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) following their unsuccessful attempt to regain a leading position in the gambling sector. Both face serious criminal allegations related to their prior involvement with operations in Turkey. They assert that the regulator unlawfully disclosed confidential information during its intervention in their effort to acquire control of 888 Holdings.
Setbacks in the Takeover Plan
In 2023, Alexander and Feldman gained attention through FS Gaming, an investment entity that acquired a 6.5% stake in 888 Holdings. Their goal was to secure executive roles at the parent company of William Hill, portraying their involvement as a way to stabilize the business amid its financial challenges and frequent leadership changes.
However, their plans quickly unraveled. The UK Gambling Commission notified 888 Holdings of a planned license review, citing concerns over Alexander and Feldman’s past connections with Entain. This scrutiny prompted the board to withdraw and halt discussions due to the perceived risks stemming from the duo’s alleged links to an HM Revenue & Customs investigation known as Operation Incendiary.
The lawsuit claims that the UKGC’s actions exceeded normal regulatory oversight. Alexander and Feldman argue that the Commission influenced 888 Holdings’ public disclosure, which announced the license review and highlighted apprehensions related to their backgrounds. They contend that this represented a misuse of personal information and breached confidentiality, resulting in harm and distress.
Upcoming Trial and Continuing Legal Challenges
The lawsuit coincides with pending criminal charges against Alexander, Feldman, and others involving conspiracy to bribe, conspiracy to defraud, fraudulent trading, and tax evasion. These charges are connected to GVC Holdings—where the two held leadership roles—and its operations in Turkey. Their trial is scheduled as a multi-part proceeding between 2028 and 2029.
During legal proceedings, Feldman admitted awareness of Alexander’s suspect status at the time of the 888 discussions, which the Commission cites as justification for its intervention. The regulator maintains that no genuinely private information was disclosed. Nevertheless, Alexander and Feldman maintain that the Commission acted prematurely, implying negative judgments about their suitability before any criminal findings were made.
Feldman reports that the regulatory scrutiny has damaged his career prospects and isolated him professionally, while Alexander claims the situation has further tarnished his reputation. With criminal trials still years away and civil proceedings ongoing, the dispute adds complexity to the broader saga surrounding two prominent figures in the UK gambling industry.
