The Hall of Game shines a spotlight on those who have shaped global regulatory standards. Their legacy extends beyond legislation—it’s embedded in how the industry operates today.
Honoring the Architects of Regulation
The Hall of Game shines a spotlight on those who have shaped global regulatory standards. Their legacy extends beyond legislation—it’s embedded in how the industry operates today.
This year’s SiGMA Awards continued to serve as a dynamic forum for thought leadership and community. The night featured a networking reception hosted by 1xBet, an art auction benefitting the SiGMA Foundation, and a celebration of individuals who’ve redefined industry standards.
Celebrating Malta’s Founding Figures
The first Hall of Game inductees played instrumental roles in establishing Malta as the first EU country to regulate online gaming. Their contributions in policy, legal architecture, licensing, and market development have made lasting impacts—both locally and globally.
Joe Zammit Maempel – Chair, LGA
Recognized for guiding Malta’s gaming framework from inception to international acclaim. As the first Chairman of the Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA), he built the foundation for Malta’s trusted, world-class regulatory system.
Michael Frendo – Legal Architect
Honored for helping draft Malta’s first gaming legislation. His legal foresight shaped a policy landscape that balanced local oversight with global opportunity, helping position Malta as a credible jurisdiction.
Vince Farrugia – Director, Public Lotto
Awarded for signing Malta’s first iGaming license, marking the country’s formal entry into the online gaming era. His early work paved the way for what is now the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA).
Michael Zammit – Managing Director, CSB Group
Celebrated for his leadership in promoting Malta as an early host for iGaming expos, attracting pioneer operators and simplifying compliance processes for newcomers.
Olga Finkel – Legal Expert
Acknowledged for her groundbreaking role in drafting early iGaming regulation as a young lawyer. Her work helped establish enduring standards in compliance and governance, later influencing the 2018 regulatory reforms.
George Mangion – Director, PKF
Recognized for helping operators navigate Malta’s first licensing framework. His advisory efforts were critical in shaping the operational landscape of Malta’s gaming sector.
Tony Axisa – Co-author, RGRs
Honored for co-authoring the Remote Gaming Regulations, creating the technical standards that supported transparency and trust throughout the industry.
Manuel Bonnici – Co-founder, Belmed
Celebrated as a pioneer in infrastructure, having built Malta’s first gaming data center, a move that enabled the secure growth of the online sector.
George Debrincat – Founding Member, Remote Gaming Council
Awarded for securing early licenses for top brands like Unibet and for advocating best practices as the inaugural Chair of the Remote Gaming Council.
John Dalli – Former Minister of Finance
Recognized for his role in overseeing Malta’s first gaming legislation during his tenure. His economic vision helped ensure the industry developed responsibly and sustainably.
Mario Galea – First CEO, LGA; Co-author, RGRs
Honored as the architect behind Malta’s digital gaming revolution. As the first CEO of the LGA and co-author of the RGRs, Galea helped launch Malta’s first regulated online gaming environment and created the legal scaffolding for what would become a global benchmark.
A Night of Legacy and Leadership
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Mario Galea reflected on the early days of Malta’s iGaming journey—an era defined by uncertainty, bold risk-taking, and relentless innovation:
“Back then, no one knew what online gaming even was—let alone how to regulate it. We had no workforce, no playbook. But we believed in the vision. We backed each other and pushed forward. Saying ‘yes’ came naturally. Then we figured it out. That’s the Maltese way—and we did it.”
Galea also spotlighted the regulatory milestones that defined Malta’s rise—particularly the 2004 Remote Gaming Regulations, which introduced concepts that are now industry norms:
“We showed the world that online gaming could be responsibly regulated. We pioneered B2B and B2C licensing, player fund segregation, independent audits, responsible gambling protocols, and even AML training before it was required by EU law.”
Looking Ahead
The Hall of Game not only celebrates the past—it anchors the present and shapes the future. These individuals turned Malta into a global iGaming epicenter, and their work continues to inspire the next generation of leaders, lawyers, and regulators.
