Who is the owner of 1xBet?

1xBet is a globally renowned online betting platform that is widely popular in Nigeria and other regions. It is regulated by the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) and offers a variety of services, including sports betting, casino games, and esports. For users, understanding the platform's background and ownership structure is an important step in building trust. So, “Who owns 1xBet?” This article will provide a detailed exploration of 1xBet's ownership, operating company, and its legal operations in Nigeria, offering clear answers based on publicly available information.

1xBet's Ownership Overview

1xBet's ownership and operational structure is relatively complex, involving multiple entities and key individuals. Here are the key details:

• Operating Company: 1xBet is owned and operated by 1X Corp N.V., a company registered in Cyprus (Limassol). 1X Corp N.V. holds a Curacao eGaming License (License No.: 1668/JAZ), which provides the legal basis for its global operations.
• Nigeria Operations: In Nigeria, 1xBet is operated by Beaufortbet Nigeria Limited, a company registered under Nigerian law and holding a national license issued by the NLRC (License No.: 0001018, issued on September 12, 2019). This ensures its legal status in Nigeria.
• Founders: According to multiple sources, the main founders of 1xBet include:
  • Sergey Karshkov: Former head of the cybercrime department of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, later became a key figure in 1xBet. Karshkov reportedly died in Switzerland in 2023 due to medical complications at the age of 42.
  • Roman Semiokhin: Russian entrepreneur involved in the early establishment of 1xBet, with a background in technology and management.
  • Dmitry Kazorin: Considered one of the co-founders, involved in the company's strategic development.
• Other key figures: Some sources mention Evgeniy Kiriushin and Alexandr Thikonov as potentially playing important roles in 1xBet's operations, but their specific positions (such as CEO) remain unclear.
• Ownership disputes: Limited public information is available regarding the exact ownership of 1xBet. The equity structure of 1X Corp N.V. has not been fully disclosed, with some reports indicating that Karshkov, Semiokhin, and Kazorin hold major shares, though the exact proportions are unknown. Additionally, Karshkov's death may impact the ownership structure, but as of April 2025, no new information has confirmed any changes.

The origins and development of 1xBet

• Founded: 1xBet was established in 2007, initially focusing on the Russian market. It was founded by Karshkov, Semiokhin, and Kazorin in Bryansk, Russia. They started by operating computer clubs and gradually shifted to online gambling operations.
• Global Expansion: 1xBet expanded to 134 countries through a franchise model, covering regions such as Africa, South America, and Asia. In Nigeria, 1xBet quickly established its market position through a partnership with the Nigerian Football Federation and obtaining a license from the NLRC starting in 2018.
• Headquarters: 1xBet's global headquarters is located in Limassol, Cyprus, with the specific address being Limassol, Cyprus. Its registered office in Nigeria is located in Abuja, with the address being Number 9 Vannern Crescent, Maitama, Abuja.

Ownership-related disputes

1xBet's ownership and operations have been the subject of significant scrutiny due to its complex structure and international disputes:

• Russian legal issues: In 2020, Karshkov, Semiokhin, and Kazorin were placed on an international wanted list for allegedly organizing illegal gambling activities in Russia. They subsequently relocated to Cyprus, with some obtaining Cypriot citizenship through the “golden passport” program. Russian authorities accused 1xBet of operating illegally through its Russian version (1xStavka), but this did not affect its legality in Nigeria.
• Financial Disputes: In 2021, 1xBet's subsidiary 1xCorp MV filed for bankruptcy in Curaçao due to refusing to refund funds to some players. This incident raised questions about the company's financial transparency, although 1xBet continued to operate.
• Other Market Restrictions: In 2019, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) revoked 1xBet's license due to involvement in inappropriate advertising and sports betting targeting minors, leading to its exit from the UK market. Similar issues resulted in bans in the US, France, Spain, and other regions, though Nigeria's NLRC regulatory body ensured its local operations remained compliant.
• Karshkov's death: In 2023, Sergey Karshkov died in Switzerland due to an allergic reaction to an MRI contrast agent, sparking speculation about the cause of his death (including conspiracy theories), though official reports confirmed it was a medical accident. This incident may have implications for 1xBet's management structure, but no public reports have confirmed new owners or leaders.

Legal operations in Nigeria

In Nigeria, 1xBet operates through Beaufortbet Nigeria Limited, in compliance with NLRC and Lagos State Lottery Commission requirements. Its legality is supported by the following factors:

• License: NLRC License (0001018) authorizes 1xBet to provide services in all states of Nigeria.
• Localized services: Supports Naira payments, a minimum deposit of 460 Naira, local payment methods (such as Paystack, GTBank), and betting on Nigerian events (such as the Super League).
• Physical stores: 1xBet has offline betting shops in locations such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, including Ijaiye Road 4 in Ogba, Lagos, for users to place bets in person.
• Customer Support: Provides localized support via phone (+44 127 325-69-87), WhatsApp (+35795764426), and email (support@1xbet.ng).

Why focus on ownership?

Understanding 1xBet's ownership is significant for users for the following reasons:

• Trust and Transparency: Clear background information (such as NLRC regulation and Cyprus registration) enhances users' confidence in the platform's security.
• Legal Protection: A local license in Nigeria ensures the legal protection of funds and data.
• Impact of Disputes: International disputes (such as Russian warrants) may raise trust concerns but do not affect Nigeria's compliant operations.

Important Notes

• Limited information: 1xBet's ownership structure is not fully disclosed, and some information may change over time. Users are advised to monitor official statements or NLRC updates.
• Gambling risks: Gambling may result in losses. It is recommended to set a daily budget of 500-1000 Naira and bet responsibly.
• Account security: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and avoid logging in via public Wi-Fi.
• Legal compliance: Only bet on platforms regulated by the NLRC and comply with Nigerian laws.
• Age Restrictions: Nigerian law prohibits individuals under the age of 18 from participating in gambling.

Conclusion

1xBet is owned by 1X Corp N.V. based in Cyprus, with founders including Sergey Karshkov (deceased), Roman Semiokhin, and Dmitry Kazorin. In Nigeria, 1xBet operates through Beaufortbet Nigeria Limited and holds an NLRC license, ensuring legal compliance. Despite international disputes and the complexity of its ownership structure, 1xBet provides safe and compliant gambling services in Nigeria, supporting local payment methods and events. Users can access the latest information through official channels (1xbet.ng) or customer support (+44 127 325-69-87) to ensure a secure betting experience!