Held this evening at the Casino Maltese, a culturally historic private members club situated in Valletta’s iconic Strada Reale, the SiGMA Europe Awards rewarded individuals and businesses from the gaming sector across 27 diverse categories.
Opening to the dulcet notes of pianist Conrad Briffa, an elegant reception, which is supported by 1xBet, hosted guests ahead of the sit down dinner and ceremony. Guests were also able to preview an eclectic collection of paintings, prints, sculpture and signed memorabilia set to go under the hammer.
Guests then headed into the Ballroom. Lit by beautiful Murano glass chandeliers, its ceilings festooned by gilded mouldings, the elaborate room is a stunning reminder of the carnival balls and concerts once held there. Tonight was no less festive – with guests from across the top echelons of the international gaming sector bringing a touch of glamour to the evening as they celebrated the success of their industry this year.
Hosted by Elisa Martinotti and Mark Borg, things got underway with a moving video introducing the SiGMA Foundation. Proceeds from tonight’s auction will benefit a number of global Foundation projects taking place this year – many of which focus on healthcare, education, and community support. Find out more about how you can contribute, sponsor, or take part in fundraisers by visiting the website.
Next up, a raffle. Tonight’s prize: an enviable VIP private yacht charter with a sunset champagne cruise for two.
That done, the evening moved on to the awards themselves. As guests tucked into a feast that included braised beef cheeks and hay-roasted spring lamb, a first round of winners was announced. Few of the finalists will surprise readers; indeed the winners’ list is effectively a who’s who of the industry – decorated by well-known names that include Betsson Group, Videslots, Flutter, bet365, and Pragmatic Play.
The full list of SiGMA Europe Award winners are:
Best Slot Game 2026
Winner: Panda Venture by EGT Digital
Best Player Retention Strategy 2026
Winner: VideoSlots
Best Casino Platform 2026
Winner: BETCORE
Best Marketing Campaign 2026
Winner: Bet it Drives by GR8 Tech
Best Sports Betting Operator 2026
Winner: 1xbet
Best Affiliate Network 2026
Winner: Makeberry Affiliates
Best CRM Solution 2026
Winner: Fasttrack
Best Multi-Market Sportsbook Operator 2026
Winner: bet365
Best Esports Supplier 2026
Winner: Betby

Best Corporate Service 2026
Winner: CSB Group
Best Casino Operator 2026
Winner: Casumo
Creative Excellence 2026
Winner: Alea
Best Slot Game Portfolio 2026
Winner: Pragmatic Play
Best Casino & Sportsbook Integration 2026
Winner: Betsson Group
Best Payment Solution 2026
Winner: VallettaPay
Best New Game Release 2026
Winner: Pilot Chicken by SPRIBE
Best Affiliate Program 2026
Winner: Joinaff
Best Game Design 2026
Winner: Avianmaster by BGaming
Industry Excellence in Business Growth 2026
Winner: Digitain
Best Streamer 2026
Winner: GamDucks
Best Sportsbook Platform 2026
Winner: BetConstruct Ai
Best Crypto Payment Provider 2026
Winner: Payhound
Best Aggregator 2026
Winner: SOFTSWISS Game Aggregator
Best Workplace 2026
Winner: Altenar
Best Live Casino Provider 2026
Winner: Evolution
Best Affiliate Software 2026
Winner: My Affiliates
Outstanding Contribution to Gaming 2026
Winner: Flutter
The SiGMA Auction – a spirited event that has become a well-loved tradition at SiGMA’s global Awards – was conducted by Rick Goddard – a long-time supporter and ambassador of the SiGMA Foundation. Injecting a little friendly-competition into proceedings, Goddard led the event with gusto, rousing the crowd through passionate pleas and his own unique brand of charm.

With all 27 categories handed out, the hosts moved on to the Hall of Game. A special portion of the evening dedicated to honouring stand-out individuals that have set the gold standard for their sector. Honourees included Hilary Stewart Jones, Robin Eirik Reed, and Dmitry Starostenkov.
Closing things off on a high note, a light-hearted quiz delivered a final round of prizes – with a Rolex watch as first place, followed by an iPhone 17 and, in third – a luxury overnight stay including spa and fine dining.
The SiGMA Europe Awards is brought to you by BETCONSTRUCT AI, an iGaming solutions company that was recently announced as the official partner for SiGMA’s full lineup of Award ceremonies this year.
Next stop: Manila
The Awards are back in early June as part of the SiGMA Asia summit, taking place at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila. Find out who was shortlisted here and, if you haven’t already – ensure your seat at the table with a Platinum ticket. Buy your tickets from the SiGMA website or reach out to the team for more information.





