Swiss Regulator Files Criminal Complaint Against FIFA Over World Cup 2026 Tokens

^{Pictured: Manuel Richard, Director of Gespa}

Switzerland’s Intercantonal Gambling Supervisory Authority (Gespa) has filed a criminal complaint with the public prosecutor’s office concerning the activities of FIFA Collect, an NFT platform created by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA). The regulator said it had identified signs of illegal gambling activity in the project’s operation.

The complaint centers on the platform’s token sale mechanism. Users purchase Right to Buy tokens — digital certificates granting the right to buy tickets for specific 2026 World Cup matches once sales open. Some of the tokens are linked to particular national teams.

For example, a Right to Final: England token priced at $999 allows its holder to buy a ticket for the final — but only if England actually qualifies. If the team is eliminated, the token loses its value. According to media reports, FIFA has already sold tens of thousands of such tokens, generating an estimated $15 million.

After conducting an internal review, Gespa concluded that the platform effectively sells a chance rather than a guaranteed ticket, which constitutes a lottery or gambling activity under Swiss law and therefore requires a local license.

Additionally, Gespa noted that the FIFA Collect website includes game-like features and contests that require an entry fee and offer prizes based on random outcomes. Such activities, the agency said, could qualify as unlicensed gambling.

The final legal assessment of the case lies with Switzerland’s criminal prosecution authorities, who may involve Gespa in further investigation if necessary. The regulator has declined to comment further until the inquiry is complete.

Earlier this year, Gespa also drew attention for investigating piglet racing bets, which it said might fall under similar gambling regulations.