The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has warned English Premier League clubs that sponsorship deals with unlicensed cryptocurrency companies could expose them to legal liability, money laundering risks, and reputational damage.
The regulatory body’s warning, which raises concerns about existing partnerships, comes eight days before the start of the 2026 World Cup, a window of peak global interest in football.
Cryptocurrency sponsorship money floods football ahead of World Cup
Cryptocurrency companies spent a record £130 million ($170 million) on sponsorship for the English Premier League last season, according to… Bloomberg. Fourteen of the twenty clubs held cryptocurrency or blockchain partners, compared to eight the previous year.
Manchester City led commercial revenue, generating €408 million ($474 million) in 2025, before broadcast income. The influx has filled the gaps left by stricter gambling rules, fueling them Crypto trades via clubs.
The 2026 World Cup begins next June 11 in Mexico City FIFA. The tournament enhances the visibility of sponsors, raising the stakes for clubs whose partners reach millions of international fans.
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) targets unauthorized cryptocurrency sponsors
The Financial Supervision Authority said that some unlicensed companies may violate financial promotion rules by using the club’s brand to reach fans. I have liaised with clubs where I have identified concerns and referred to implementation where needed.
“Millions of football fans trust their club badge. Clubs must not allow unlicensed financial companies to exploit this loyalty by offering potentially dodgy products to millions of fans.” I mentionedQuoted by Lucy Castledine, Director of Consumer Investments at FCA.
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Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock said sponsorship income was important, but fans deserve responsible and safe partners.
Many deals are subject to scrutiny, incl Manchester City as a partner. The organizer pointed out Cryptocurrency marketing rules in the UK Which requires approved consumer promotions.
Fans face a complete loss
The financial watchdog said fans who use unregulated companies risk losing all their money and lack access to compensation schemes.
Unlike approved providers, these companies fall outside the Office of the Financial Ombudsman’s scope and compensation coverage.
The logo indicates payment, not an endorsement of safety.
The IEA already holds FCA Warning List. Which companies can verify. Wider Growth of crypto sports sponsorship It indicates that the tension between revenue and protection will continue.
With the 2026 World Cup looming, the coming weeks may reveal that Whether teams prune partnerships Or defending the money they have come to depend on.
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