Danske Spil elects “trusted hand” Lars Krarup as new Chairman
The Board of Danish national lottery operator Danske Spil has followed the recommendation of Denmark’s Ministry of Finance, announcing the appointment of Lars Krarup as the new Chairman.
The appointment will be formally ratified at an extraordinary general meeting scheduled for 3 June 2025. Krarup brings extensive leadership experience to the role, having served for many years as Mayor of the Municipality of Herning.
Of particular note, Krarup has a prior association with Danske Spil funding through his former role as Chairman of Team Danmark, the organisation responsible for overseeing the state-owned lottery and gaming group’s funding for elite sports and Danish athletes.
Krarup is recognised as a prominent figure in public administration, business management, sport, and cultural development.
Commenting on the appointment, Krarup said: “I am very pleased with the trust that has been shown in me. In my work as mayor and in sport, I have seen firsthand how Danske Spil’s profits support both small and large communities.
“It is a privilege to contribute to securing the financial foundation for Danish association life and thousands of good causes.”
He added that Danske Spil plays a vital societal role, not only by engaging nearly two million Danes annually, but also by setting standards in responsible gaming.
In a further boardroom development, DGI Chair Charlotte Bach Thomassen will be appointed Vice Chair. Thomassen has served on the Danske Spil board since 2022 and represents the growing involvement of Denmark’s sports associations in the oversight of the gaming sector.
Founded in 1948, Danske Spil is majority-owned by the Danish state, which holds 81% of the company. The remaining shares are equally held by the Danish Sports Association (DIF) and DGI, each with a 9.5% stake. The operator’s mission is to generate revenue for the public good, specifically in sport, culture, and social projects.
In 2024, Danske Spil recorded its highest-ever contribution to Danish society. The company delivered a total of DKK 3.28bn (€440m) through distribution funds, dividends, and taxes. Of this, more than DKK 1.8bn (€241m) was allocated to the distribution funds under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture.