Sports Betting Fund Mystery: Rory Campbell Faces Questions Over Missing £5M from Investors
Rory Campbell, the 37-year-old son of Alastair Campbell (Tony Blair's former chief spin doctor), faces potential criminal inquiry following the collapse of his sports betting syndicate, leaving investors over £5 million short.
Man gestures wearing black leather jacket
Campbell informed investors of the syndicate's collapse roughly two weeks ago, claiming Asian sportsbooks failed to pay out winnings. However, one investor revealed on the Racing Room betting podcast that Campbell's main bet placer allegedly hadn't received payment since January, despite Campbell waiting until mid-July to notify investors of potential risks.
Anthony Kaminskas, AK Bets founder and Racing Room co-presenter, shared an anonymous investor's message highlighting:
- Six months of unanswered requests for proof regarding non-paying Asian agents
- Campbell's dismissive response to investors' inquiries
- The syndicate's successful track record, winning seven of the last eight years
- Campbell's sole knowledge of bet placement details
Notable investors included:
- Experienced gamblers and industry stakeholders
- A former Racing Post executive
- A British Horseracing Authority official
- A television racing presenter
- Alastair Campbell (£300,000 investment)
Investors expected a 4% return after the May soccer season. When payments didn't materialize, Campbell assured there was "no hole" in the fund and promised full payment by July's end. Settlement negotiations failed on Friday, leading one investor to file a £266,000 lawsuit in London county court. Others threaten to involve the Serious Fraud Office unless Campbell explains the missing funds.