Five industry figures and three emerging leaders will be recognised at the WorldGaming Gala before ICE Barcelona 2027
The initiative creates a new annual recognition programme linked to the gaming industry’s largest international trade show, combining career achievement with a focus on future leadership.
WorldGaming will reveal the first ICE Global Hall of Fame members at the WorldGaming Gala on Sunday 17 January 2027. The event will take place on the eve of ICE Barcelona, which runs from 18 to 20 January at Fira Barcelona Gran Via.
Five annual inductees
Five established industry figures will enter the Hall of Fame each year.
Selections will consider career achievements, leadership, contributions to the gaming community and lasting influence on the sector.
The initiative is intended to recognise people who have helped change the international gaming industry through their work, ideas and leadership.
Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director responsible for ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona
“We are delighted to launch the ICE Global Hall of Fame in partnership with the industry. This is about celebrating people who have made a genuinely significant contribution to gaming, while also recognising leaders who are already shaping its future.
“Gaming is a dynamic and influential global entertainment industry. We want to celebrate those who have helped it evolve, challenged convention, supported progress and made a lasting difference.”
Emerging Legends look to the future
The programme will also name three Emerging Legends each year.
These individuals may not have decades of industry experience, but must already have demonstrated leadership, influence and measurable achievements.
An independent judging panel made up of industry representatives will select the three emerging leaders. WorldGaming has not yet published the names of the judges, nomination arrangements or complete assessment process.
Dunn said this second group distinguishes the programme from a conventional Hall of Fame by placing established figures alongside people expected to influence the industry’s next stage.
Margaret Dunn, Portfolio Director responsible for ICE and iGB Affiliate Barcelona
“What makes the Hall of Fame different is that we are not only looking back. We are looking forward too.
“We want to recognise established legends alongside emerging leaders who we believe will play an important role in taking the industry into its next chapter.”
Recognition linked to World Gaming Week
The Hall of Fame will form part of the WorldGaming Gala and the wider programme surrounding ICE Barcelona.
ICE 2027 is scheduled for 18–20 January, while World Gaming Week will run from 17–21 January. The exhibition expects to bring together operators, suppliers, regulators and professionals from across land-based gaming, online gambling, payments, technology and related sectors.
WorldGaming plans to make the Hall of Fame an annual programme recognising leadership, achievement and long-term industry impact.
The inaugural inductees and Emerging Legends have not yet been announced.
