Peter Knutsson begins term as Spelinspektionen Director General

Peter Knutsson has formally begun his role as Director General of Spelinspektionen, taking responsibility for the Swedish Gambling Authority during a period of continued regulatory and enforcement change.

Knutsson joins the regulator from his position as Sweden’s Advertising Ombudsman, a role he held from August 2024. His appointment is scheduled to run until 2032.

In a statement marking his first day, Knutsson described the position enthusiastically, stating: "Finally, the day is here for my first real day at the Swedish Gambling Authority. It feels both exciting and inspiring to step into the role of Director General and lead the agency's work for a safe and sustainable gambling market. 

"I look forward to getting to know all the new colleagues, and together we take on the important task of creating good conditions for a functioning Swedish gambling market."

Knutsson has more than 20 years of management and leadership experience, supported by a professional background in law, consumer affairs and public administration. His previous positions include work at the Ministry of Finance and European Commission, as well as advisory experience involving the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority.

His areas of experience include consumer legislation, legal analysis, political affairs and advertising oversight.

The appointment gives Spelinspektionen a Director General whose recent work has focused on marketing standards and consumer issues rather than gambling-sector operations.

Knutsson succeeds acting Director General Johan Röhr, who had also served as the authority’s Chief Legal Officer. Röhr said he would support the transition to avoid disruption to Spelinspektionen’s day-to-day activities.

Knutsson’s responsibilities will include oversight of licensing, supervision and enforcement across Sweden’s lottery, casino and betting sectors, alongside the regulator’s continuing focus on channelisation, illegal gambling and player protection.

The appointment comes as Sweden’s channelisation rate continues to attract attention. Spelinspektionen estimated that 84% of competitive-market gambling occurred with licensed operators in 2025, down from 85% in 2024. The regulator has identified social media, influencer marketing, banners and sponsored search results as routes used to promote unlicensed gambling.