FCA warns Premier League over unauthorized crypto sponsors

The Financial Conduct Authority has warned Premier League clubs that sponsorships with unauthorized crypto firms could expose teams to legal liability, money‑laundering risks and reputational harm. The regulator issued the alert eight days before the World Cup, which begins June 11, 2026, in Mexico City.

The FCA said some partnerships may breach the UK financial promotion rules and that it has contacted clubs where it identified concerns. The regulator urged clubs to check whether partners are authorised to market crypto products to retail consumers and warned it will enforce the rules where firms are promoting products illegally.

Crypto and blockchain firms spent a record £130 million on Premier League sponsorships last season. Fourteen of the 20 clubs carried crypto-related partners, up from eight the previous year. Clubs increased crypto deals after tighter rules on gambling advertising reduced the pool of traditional sponsors. Manchester City led commercial earnings in 2025, reporting €408 million in commercial revenue.

The FCA highlighted consumer risks. Fans who deal with unregulated crypto firms can lose all of their money and have no access to the Financial Ombudsman Service or the UK compensation schemes if a firm fails. Unauthorized firms operate outside the compensation framework the regulator enforces. The FCA maintains a public warning list that clubs and consumers can consult to confirm whether a crypto firm is authorised.

Lucy Castledine, the FCA’s director of consumer investments, warned: “Millions of football fans trust their club’s badge. Clubs should not let unauthorized financial firms exploit that loyalty by putting potentially dodgy products in front of millions of fans.” Sports minister Stephanie Peacock noted that sponsorship income matters for clubs but that fans deserve partners who are accountable and safe.

The regulator said the timing of the notice reflects the global attention on clubs ahead of the World Cup, when sponsors will be visible to millions of international viewers. The coming weeks could see clubs review, renegotiate or end commercial relationships flagged by the FCA, or could lead to further regulatory enforcement if unauthorized promotions continue.