Departing Star Sports Chairman Refutes Links To BGC Post

Departing Star Sports Chairman Sir Philip Davies has refuted suggestions he could replace Michael Dugher as the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) Chair. Davies,  who served as the Chair of Star Sports, a sports betting business, for two years, only resigned on New Year’s Eve.

This will inevitably leave a power vacuum at Star Sports, but Davies, who is an ex-Tory MP, showed his dedication to the gambling industry. Nevertheless, the damning suggestion outlined in a report that Star Sports could do better with their next appointment, may cause alarm among those in the betting community.

Davies rejects links to the BGC

It is fair to assert that Davies’s exit was rather sudden. Having only replaced Russ Wiseman as Star Sports Chair in December 2024, he will now have time to weigh up his next role in the betting industry.

However, he has ruled out, for now, at least, replacing Dugher at BGC. When pressed on the matter, Davies, during an interview, told Next.io:

“Michael only left the role yesterday, and so I am sure the members of the BGC will want to spend time giving careful consideration as to who is the best person to step into his shoes.

“In all honesty, I have no plans to apply for the job, and I do not expect to be approached, but I wish whoever takes on the role all the very best. They will have a very important job to do.”

Why did Davies quit Star Sports?

It was hinted at by Davies that he left his position due to a conflict of interest with another post he held. Davies also served as a non-executive director at the Racecourse Association, which may have influenced his decision.

Timing of Dugher’s BGC departure fascinating

As far as Dugher is concerned, his decision to step down as BGC Chair was fascinating. Given the ongoing challenges faced by the betting industry in relation to the inexorable growth of the unregulated black market and the significant Remote Gambling Duty (RGD) tax hikes announced in Rachel Reeves’ budget in November, the BGC has a void to fill.

Certainly, the BGC has a big void to fill. As of yet, there have been no names bandied about as to who could succeed Dugher.

Glowing Dugher tribute

Despite quitting his position, Grainne Hurst, BGC’s CEO, hailed the work carried out by her former colleague. Interestingly, Hurst, who previously served as a parliamentary adviser under Davies, took the opportunity to thank Dugher for his ‘exceptional contribution’ to the BGC.

In a statement, she said:

“Michael’s contribution to the Betting and Gaming Council over the past six years has been exceptional. From the outset, he brought clarity of purpose, a trusted standing with policymakers and regulators, and a steadfast commitment to championing a responsible, well-regulated betting and gaming industry.

“Under his leadership, the BGC was firmly established as a credible standards body, uniting a diverse membership around stronger consumer protections and a shared determination to do the right thing, often going beyond regulatory requirements.

“On a personal note, it has been a genuine privilege to work alongside Michael. He leaves a proud and lasting legacy at the BGC, having strengthened standards, unified the industry and ensured it is well prepared for the challenges ahead.”