Marco Sala appointed Lottomatica Group CEO

In making the announcement, Pellicioli, who will remain as Board Chairman, said: "When I became Group CEO, I envisioned it as a way of transitioning to a new leader. I am very pleased that the Board of Directors has approved my recommendation of Marco Sala to become the new CEO of Lottomatica Group. With Marco, we have a proven leader who understands our business and knows how to drive sustainable and profitable results. The Board has great confidence in his ability to successfully take on the challenges we face and the tremendous opportunities we have ahead of us."

Pellicioli continued, "As a member of our Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Marco has played a significant role in developing and executing our strategies and will be able to take over the leadership of the Group in what I am confident will be a seamless transition."

Pellicioli also thanked Gtech CEO, Jaymin Patel, for his support. "I have enjoyed working with Jaymin and have come to recognize him as one of the brightest and most capable executives with whom I have been associated. As a member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, Jaymin has established himself as a trusted and valued leader in our Group."

Commenting on his appointment, Sala said, "I am honored and humbled by the confidence the Board has placed in me. I view my acceptance of this new challenge as a confirmation of the success that all of my colleagues at Lottomatica and I have been able to achieve. The Lottomatica Group has a great leadership team, and, with their support, I am confident that we will build upon the progress we have made under Lorenzo's leadership."

He has played a significant role in Lottomatica's success. In August 2006, he was appointed Managing Director and Chief Executive of Lottomatica with responsibility over European activities following Lottomatica's acquisition of Gtech. Prior to joining Lottomatica in March 2003, Sala held senior management roles with SEAT Pagine Gialle, Magneti Marelli, and Kraft Foods. He graduated from Bocconi University with a degree in business and economics.

It was also announced that Renato Ascoli, Head of the Business Division at Lottomatica, has been named General Manager of Lottomatica responsible for the Italian market. Commenting on the appointment, Sala said, "Renato has been a key leader in the expansion and growth of our Italian operations. He has a comprehensive knowledge of our business, tremendous market insight, and a clear understanding of what we need to do to continue our growth pattern."

The appointments announced take effect immediately.