(AsiaGameHub) –   The Swedish government has revealed the appointment of Peter Knutsson as the new director general of the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen). 

Knutsson, who presently serves as the advertising ombudsman, is set to take on the role on 17 August 2026. He will hold the six-year position until 31 August 2032.

Knutsson will bring a breadth of experience in public administration, consumer protection, and regulatory roles. Since August 2024, he has been overseeing advertising standards in Sweden as part of his ombudsman responsibilities. 

Previously, he held the post of Head of Unit at the Ministry of Finance and has worked with the European Commission. Additionally, Knutsson has provided advisory support to the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority. 

A qualified lawyer with more than 20 years of managerial experience, Knutsson specializes in consumer legislation and related policy areas.

‘This will be very good for the authority’

The appointment takes place during a period of intensified scrutiny of Sweden’s gambling market, with recent data showing that nearly one in six Swedes engaged in online gambling activities in 2025. 

Concurrently, the government has been advancing amendments to the Gambling Act aimed at strengthening its capacity 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 strong experience Peter Knutsson brings from, among other areas, 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 manage the transition and assist Knutsson to ensure a smooth 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 thorough introduction during my handover as acting director general.”

Knutsson will take over from the acting leadership that has steered Spelinspektionen through recent periods of regulatory and enforcement activity.