The eighth edition of the event is set to recognise and celebrate the best performing sports betting and igaming operators, affiliates and suppliers, with the victors to be announced in a lavish ceremony in front of an audience of 800 industry professionals.  

There could hardly be a better choice to host an event focused on achievement and success than Desailly, who was one of the stars of the all-conquering France national football team that won the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Euro 2000, and the Confederations Cup in both 2001 and 2003.

In addition to his honours-filled 116-cap international career, the Accra-born star also enjoyed a trophy-laden club career, which began at Nantes, before a move to Olympique de Marseille that brought a 1993 UEFA Champions League winner’s medal.

He then joined AC Milan and played a key role in the Rossoneri’s 1994 Champions League triumph and two Serie A titles, before a transfer to Chelsea, where he starred in the Blues’ 2000 FA Cup victory. 

Spells at Qatari clubs Al-Gharafa and Qatar S.C. followed before he retired from professional football in 2004, having earned a reputation as one of the finest central defenders in the history of the game. 

Desailly said: “I’m really excited to be co-hosting the SBC Awards on the 14th December with Kirsty Gallacher. It promises to be a great evening celebrating the very best in the betting and gaming industry. See you all there!”

Gallacher is a familiar face to both SBC Awards attendees, having hosted the last three ceremonies, and sports fans across the UK. Now the GB News Breakfast presenter, she enjoyed a successful 20 years with Sky Sports, anchoring Sky Sports News’ flagship show and fronting the broadcaster’s coverage of events including the Ryder Cup and The Masters.

Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC, said: “The SBC Awards are one of the highlights of the betting and gaming industry calendar, as we celebrate the best of the best and recognise the sector’s many achievements. Having Marcel Desailly and Kirsty Gallacher hosting the ceremony is sure to make it an unforgettable night to round off this most unusual of years.”

The SBC Awards feature 43 categories, with honours for betting and gaming operators, affiliates and suppliers, and the shortlists can be viewed on the event’s website.

Tickets for the awards are now on sale. In addition to the ceremony and entertainment, all attendees will enjoy a champagne and cocktail reception, three-course dinner and complimentary drinks, while businesses booking VIP tables will also benefit from company branding, five extra bottles of champagne and a dedicated table waiter.