FCA warns Premier League over unauthorised crypto sponsors

The Financial Conduct Authority has warned Premier League clubs that sponsorships with unauthorised crypto firms could expose them to legal liability, money‑laundering risks and reputational damage, eight days before the 2026 World Cup.

The regulator said some crypto and blockchain partners operating without UK authorisation may be breaching financial promotion rules by using club branding to reach fans. It has contacted clubs where concerns were identified and signalled it will take enforcement action where necessary, urging clubs to ensure promotions to UK consumers are authorised.

Crypto companies spent a record £130 million on Premier League sponsorships last season. Fourteen of the 20 clubs carried crypto or blockchain partners, up from eight a year earlier. Manchester City led commercial earners in 2025 with €408 million of commercial revenue.

Clubs increased crypto deals after tighter gambling rules reduced a previous source of commercial income.

The 2026 World Cup begins on June 11 in Mexico City. The FCA highlighted the timing, saying the tournament will bring intense global attention and that using a club badge to promote unauthorised financial products can mislead fans into assuming oversight or safety.

The regulator set out consumer risks. Fans who use unauthorised crypto services can lose all their money and do not have access to the Financial Ombudsman or to compensation schemes that cover authorised providers. The FCA keeps a public warning list that consumers and clubs can consult to check a firm’s authorisation status.

Several partnerships are under scrutiny, including at least one sleeve sponsor for Manchester City. The FCA has urged clubs to review agreements and ensure marketing aimed at UK customers complies with the law.

Lucy Castledine, director of consumer investments at the FCA, warned: “Millions of football fans trust their club’s badge. Clubs should not let unauthorised financial firms exploit that loyalty.”

Sports minister Stephanie Peacock noted sponsorship income matters to clubs and said fans deserve partners who are accountable and safe.

The regulator has told clubs to ensure any promotions to UK consumers meet financial promotion rules and has indicated it will take enforcement action where breaches are found.