Tony Blair's Ex-Spin Doctor Loses £300,000 in Son's Failed Betting Scheme

Tony Blair's Ex-Spin Doctor Loses £300,000 in Son's Failed Betting Scheme

By Michael Davidson

January 2, 2025 at 08:48 PM

Alastair Campbell, Tony Blair's former spin doctor, lost £300,000 (US$370,000) in his son's failed soccer-betting syndicate operation. The venture, which attracted over £5 million from 50+ investors, recently collapsed amid claims of unpaid winnings from Asian sportsbooks.

Two men in dark suits

Two men in dark suits

Rory Campbell, 37, ran the syndicate using mathematical models to allegedly gain betting market advantages. He initially promised investors full repayment by July's end but later revised expectations to "50%-65%" returns.

Investors report that Campbell marketed the scheme as "massively low risk," claiming no more than 5% of the total betting fund could be lost to any single bookmaker. However, the fund's collapse has left many facing substantial losses, with recovery estimates now at just 15%.

Some investors have compiled evidence, including contracts, bank statements, and communications, which they plan to present to law enforcement. The total amount involved exceeds £5 million (US$6.1 million).

A spokesperson for the Campbells stated that current negotiations are confidential and expressed disappointment over broken confidences. They noted that media reports present an "incomplete and, in several respects, inaccurate account" of the situation.

Alastair Campbell, 67, served as Blair's director of communications from 1997 to 2003, earning the unofficial title of "the real deputy prime minister" for his influence as Blair's speechwriter and chief strategist.

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