9/7/2006 07:46 AM
sportingbet plc chairman detained; company freezes shares

Statement regarding Chairman

Whilst visiting the US on non-Sportingbet business, Mr Peter Dicks, aged 64, Non-Executive Chairman of Sportingbet Plc, was detained by US Authorities at approximately 2.00am BST on Thursday, 6 September 2006.

A hearing for Mr Dicks is scheduled for 2.00pm BST.

Pending clarification of the situation the Board has sought immediate temporary suspension of Sportingbet’s shares.

Further information will be issued in due course.

For further information please contact:

Smithfield (media) Tel: 020 7903 0669
George Hudson Tel: 07803 603 130
Link to Sportingbet Plc statement

Players who are adverse to risk may wish to withdraw their funds from all Sportingbet and World Gaming operated sportsbooks. SBR does not expect Sportingbet to follow the path of BetOnSports which did not have player funds in reserve. Trading is expected to resume shortly. View sportsbook list here.

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