• Company

    Circus.nl

  • SectorConsumer Products
  • ActivityOnline casino
  • Date31 October 2025
  • CountryBelgium - Netherlands

CVC-backed Gaming1 acquires full control over Circus.nl

Profile

Circus.nl is an online platform for gambling and sports betting, as well as live casino games in the Netherlands. Through competitive odds, a wide range of games, and a secure playing environment, the company aims to offer players the ultimate online gambling experience. Combining user-friendliness with a sleek design, the platform is accessible anytime and anywhere, allowing for a seamless gaming experience via computer, tablet, or smartphone.

Gaming1 is a major player in the technology and entertainment sectors, specializing in casino, sports betting, and poker games, both on land and online. Headquartered in Belgium, the company is present in nine countries, including Malta, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Portugal, Spain, and the United States, with more than 1.600 employees spread over its three major business hubs.

Gaming1 is committed to offering its customers and partners a fluid and innovative omni-channel experience. To this end, it has developed a scalable technology platform that enables its local and international partners to optimize their online presence. The Group also has its own casino games studio, reinforcing its portfolio of strong brands. Only active in regulated markets, Gaming1 is exclusively positioned in legal and ethical gaming. The company strives to offer the best player experience in a responsible way.

CVC Capital Partners has partnered with Gaming1 since December 2021 with a vision of accelerating its growth and becoming a worldwide reference on the regulated online gaming market.  

Circus.nl was founded in 2022 as joint venture between Gaming1 and Gran Casino, a land-based casino operator with over 15 years of experience in the Netherlands. Following their successful joint growth journey over the last years, Gaming1 now acquires the 50% shares in Circus.nl held by Gran Casino to become sole shareholder in the company. 

“This move marks an important milestone for the group and will allow Gaming1 to fully implement its operating model focused on excellence.” states Gaming1 in its announcement of the transaction. “The Dutch market remains challenging, with recent regulatory and fiscal changes increasing the pressure on licensed operators. These developments make greater integration and efficiency more important than ever.”

Martijn Maertens, CEO Circus.nl on the transaction: “This marks the start of a new, exciting phase for the company. This step enables further efficiency gains and empowers Circus.nl to optimally leverage the knowledge, technical innovation, and data-driven optimalization of Gaming1. I am convinced this will soon lead to an even better gaming experience, with player protection at its core, and will strengthen Circus.nl as a leading brand in the Dutch market.”

For more information: Circus.nl and Gaming1

‹‹ Back