VGW confirmed Laurence Escalante’s permanent departure on July 3, 2026, following the founder’s leave of absence earlier that year.
VGW confirmed on July 3, 2026 that founder Laurence Escalante had resigned permanently, turning his earlier leave of absence into a lasting leadership departure. The resignation took effect immediately, according to SBC Americas' July 6 report.
Escalante had stepped back from the chief executive role in January. The July confirmation settled whether he would return: VGW said he would not resume his role at the company he founded.
The change concerned the parent business behind Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots and Global Poker.
In a company statement to the Australian Financial Review quoted by SBC Americas, VGW said Escalante had decided to focus on personal matters and the business, investment and philanthropic interests of his family office.