Danske Spil names Lars Krarup as new chairman

Danske Spil has announced the appointment of Lars Krarup, former mayor of the Herning Municipality, as its new chairman.

Krarup will commence his new role with effect from 3 June. His appointment was based on a recommendation from the Ministry of Finance, with Danske Spil 81% owned by the state in Denmark.

Krarup, who spent more than 19 and a half years as mayor of Herning, is also currently chair of Realdania. The private association supports projects across architecture and planning in Denmark.

Prior to this, he was chairman of Team Danmark, a government-funded organisation that promotes elite sport. He also chaired Sport Event Denmark, which works to draw major sporting events to the country.

Krarup’s other experience includes working as a board member at both KommuneKredit, a special-purpose credit institution, and local government association KL.

Krarup to focus on good causes

Commenting on his appointment, Krarup said he has seen first hand how funds from Danske Spil can support the community. Team Danmark, where he has worked for five years, is supported using funds from Danske Spil.

“In my work as mayor and in sports, I have experienced firsthand how Danske Spil’s profits support both small, large and professional communities,” Krarup said. “It is a privilege to contribute to continuing to secure the financial foundation for Danish association life and thousands of good causes.

“Danske Spil is a particularly important social actor. Not only because the company brings together 1.9 million Danes each year around the dream of winning for the benefit of the community, but also because profitability and responsibility go hand in hand when Danske Spil leads the way for a more responsible gaming market.”

The operator also confirmed that Charlotte Bach will remain as its deputy chairman. Bach, who also currently chairs Danish sports organisation DGI, was first elected to the role in 2022.