PointsBet Appoints Andrew Catterall as Group CEO in Leadership Transition

PointsBet Holdings has announced a leadership transition, with Andrew Catterall set to succeed co-founder Sam Swanell as Group CEO effective February 1, 2026. The change comes as the Australian betting operator enters a new phase under majority ownership by Japanese technology firm MIXI.

PointsBet Holdings has announced a leadership transition, with Andrew Catterall set to succeed co-founder Sam Swanell as Group CEO effective February 1, 2026. The change comes as the Australian betting operator enters a new phase under majority ownership by Japanese technology firm MIXI.

Swanell, who has served as Managing Director and CEO since co-founding the company in 2015, will transition to an advisory role while remaining on the board as an executive director. The move marks the end of a transformational decade during which PointsBet expanded internationally, completed a public listing in 2019, and navigated significant market challenges.

Catterall Takes the Helm

Catterall currently serves as CEO of PointsBet Australia, a position he has held since July 2022. Prior to joining PointsBet, he served as CEO of Racing.com, where he led the business through major changes in broadcasting, digital media, and commercial operations.

The incoming Group CEO brings experience from senior roles in sports administration and wagering, having previously worked with the Australian Football League (AFL) and Racing Victoria Limited (RVL). His appointment comes after he has overseen operational improvements and commercial performance initiatives within PointsBet’s Australian division.

Under the terms of his employment agreement, Catterall will receive a fixed annual remuneration of AU$675,000, with eligibility for short-term and long-term incentive awards tied to performance metrics, plus retention incentives payable in 2026 and 2027. He will not initially join the PointsBet Holdings board.

Swanell’s Legacy and Continued Role

Swanell’s tenure as CEO saw PointsBet navigate an ambitious expansion into North America following the 2018 repeal of PASPA in the United States. The company launched in New Jersey in 2019 before expanding to Colorado, New York, and other states. However, intense competition from market leaders FanDuel and DraftKings led to the eventual sale of PointsBet’s US operations to Fanatics for US$225 million in 2024.

Despite the US exit, PointsBet maintains operations in Canada, where interest remains high ahead of Alberta’s anticipated launch of a regulated multi-licence market alongside Ontario.

The company’s share price has declined significantly from its 2021 peak of over AU$16 per share to approximately AU$0.90, with market capitalization falling from over AU$3 billion to around AU$300 million. The decline reflected market pressures and the challenges of competing in the highly competitive US market.

In his advisory role, Swanell will receive AU$310,000 per annum plus incentives, while supporting the transition and contributing to strategic initiatives including potential mergers, acquisitions, and market expansion opportunities.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Sam Swanell for his exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment and deep contribution to PointsBet since founding the Company,” said Brett Paton, PointsBet Chairman. “Sam has guided PointsBet through every stage of its development and growth, and his continued involvement in an advisory capacity, as well as his ongoing service on the Board, will ensure the business continues to benefit from his insight and experience.”

New Ownership Structure

The leadership change coincides with PointsBet’s new ownership structure following a protracted takeover battle throughout 2025. MIXI Australia, the local division of Japanese digital and technology company MIXI, acquired a 66.4% stake in PointsBet at AU$1.25 per share. Rival bidder Betr, the trading name of BlueBet, now holds 27.7% after the companies engaged in competitive bidding since March 2025.

The PointsBet board consistently favored MIXI’s proposals during the acquisition process.

Looking Ahead

As PointsBet enters 2026, the company faces both opportunities and challenges in its core markets. The potential opening of Alberta’s regulated betting market presents growth prospects, while regulatory pressure continues in Australia, where backbench MPs are calling for comprehensive gambling reform.

“We are delighted to appoint Andrew Catterall as Group CEO,” Paton said. “Andrew has delivered strong performance within our Australian operations and brings extensive industry expertise, strategic capability and leadership qualities that will guide PointsBet into its next phase. The Board congratulates Andrew on his appointment and looks forward to working closely with him as he leads the Group forward.”

The transition period will run through January 2026, with Swanell working closely with Catterall to ensure an orderly transfer of responsibilities.

Source: PointsBet Holdings