Hard Rock Digital helped propel Playtech to a stronger-than-expected first half of 2026 after the technology supplier said demand for its historical racing product boosted U.S. results enough to raise full-year earnings guidance.
Playtech announced Thursday it expects first-half adjusted EBITDA to exceed €155 million, significantly ahead of market expectations. That change, the firm said, was driven by exceptional performance in the U.S. alongside continued strength in Mexico, Colombia and several European markets.
Hard Rock deal fuels U.S. growth
Hard Rock Digital was a major contributor to that outperformance. It was the first operator to launch Playtech’s Past Motor Racing product, an offering based on historical motor racing results.
Playtech said the launch benefited from a first-mover advantage and helped make Hard Rock Digital one of its largest customers. While revenue from the operator is expected to moderate during the second half of 2026 and into 2027, Playtech said it should remain at a sustainable level going forward.
Playtech also owns a minority equity stake in Hard Rock Digital as part of the companies’ long-term strategic partnership.
“Performance in the US, driven by our partnership with Hard Rock Digital, has been exceptionally strong, and we are delighted to see returns on our investments over recent years accelerate and contribute significantly to profitability and cash flow,” Playtech CEO Mor Weizer said in a statement.
Playtech lifts 2026 guidance
Playtech now expects at least €270 million in adjusted EBITDA for 2026, well above the current analyst consensus of €219 million.
The company said second-half earnings are expected to be lower than the first half as revenue from the Hard Rock rollout normalizes, while investments ahead of a planned Brazil launch and the full impact of higher U.K. Remote Gaming Duty also weigh on results.
Playtech is scheduled to report its full interim results for the first half on Sept. 10.
