Swiss Regulator Files Criminal Complaint Against FIFA Over Blockchain Ticket Tokens
GESPA accuses FIFA’s blockchain-based 'FIFA Collect' platform of offering illegal gambling services in Switzerland by selling tokenized World Cup tickets linked to random draws.
NFT
Fact Check
One highly credible and recent source, Bloomberg, explicitly states that 'Switzerland's gambling regulator has filed a criminal complaint' regarding FIFA's blockchain tokens. While several other sources from a slightly earlier timeframe refer to the situation as a 'probe' or 'investigation,' the most recent evidence indicates the matter has escalated to a formal criminal complaint, making the statement true.
- Reference: 1
Summary
On June 17, 2025, Switzerland's gambling regulator GESPA filed a criminal complaint against FIFA, alleging its 'FIFA Collect' platform offered illegal gambling services by allowing participants to wager on NFT-based competitions tied to random outcomes. The platform, which offers tokenized World Cup tickets, was found to operate without a proper gambling license in Switzerland. FIFA has yet to comment on the situation.
Terms & Concepts
- Blockchain token: A digital asset recorded on a blockchain, often used to represent ownership or access rights, such as event tickets or collectibles.
- FIFA Collect: FIFA’s blockchain-based platform offering digital collectibles and tokens linked to World Cup events.
- GESPA: The Swiss gambling regulator responsible for overseeing and enforcing laws related to gaming and betting within Switzerland.