LSports brings ex-Genius Sports VP to boost LatAm vision

LSports has appointed Fernando Matinez as VP of Sales for Latin America to expand the firm’s investment portfolio across the region.

For the sports betting data provider, Latin America represents a key growth market for the global sports betting landscape, marked by rapid regulatory reforms, accelerated digital adoption, and increasing rates of fan engagement. 

The most prominent example of this is Brazil, whose regulated betting market is projected to reach US$7bn in value just 12 months after launching. Spanish–speaking markets like Argentina and Columbia have caught the attention of the likes of Bet365 and Betsson too.

Yoav Ziv, Chief Revenue Officer at LSports, commented: “We’re not here for a quick entry. We’re here to stay, to invest, and to lead in Latin America.

“Fernando brings exactly the kind of experience and leadership we need as we continue to build a strong, regionally rooted team. His appointment is just one of many steps we’re taking to become the dominant force in LatAm.” 

Martinez will help tap into LatAm’s growth by leveraging his extensive career in the industry. 

He previously served as the VP LatAm at Genius Sports, and has a total of more than 18 years of executive leadership experience in Latin America’s sports tech and betting space. 

In his new role at LSports, he will lead the firm’s local sales strategy and growth efforts by building strong international relationships with sportsbooks, platforms, and various stakeholders. 

On his appointment, Martinez added: “I’m excited to be part of a company that isn’t just talking about LATAM growth, they’re executing it. LSports is investing in real people, real presence, and real leadership in the region. I’m proud to be one of the first of many to join the  LatAm team.”

Latin America has been on the LSports agenda for quite some time now. Last year, for example, the company successfully obtained a B2B licence by the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism in Peru.

Sharing the same vision for LatAm as Ziv and Martinez, Dotan Lazar, CEO of LSports, then commented: “This is a significant step in expanding LSports’ footprint in Latin America. We are delighted to be among the first data providers accredited in Peru. 

“The market has great potential, and we look forward to helping our partners launch competitive offerings.”

September 15 will see SBC organise a ground breaking charity football event in Lisbon. Make sure you get the chance to see some of the most legendary names in football by securing your ticket today at https://www.legendscharitygame.com/