EasyJet Founder to Launch UK Prediction Markets Platform Ahead of 2026 World Cup

^{Pictured: Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of low-cost airline EasyJet}

Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the founder of low-cost airline EasyJet, is set to launch Easybet Predictions, a UK prediction platform, ahead of the FIFA World Cup, City AM reported.

The new service will operate on Easybet, the betting exchange Haji-Ioannou founded in 2024.

Easybet says Easybet Predictions will be the first prediction consumer-facing market platform in Britain to be launched with the backing of a licensed gambling operator.

For Haji-Ioannou, the project marks another business line under the Easy brand. The entrepreneur has previously used the brand across a range of sectors, including pizza restaurants, cryptocurrency platforms and services for pet owners.

The prediction market platform is being developed in partnership with Matchbook, a brand owned by Triplebet, which is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and based in Alderney.

Matchbook chief executive Ronan McDonagh said the launch of Easybet Predictions was intended to make prediction markets more accessible to British consumers.

Haji-Ioannou founded EasyJet in 1995. The airline now operates 927 routes across more than 34 countries and is headquartered at London Luton Airport. He stepped down from EasyJet’s board in 2010 but remains a shareholder in the company. Forbes estimates his net worth at $1.4 billion.

Last month, UK betting exchange Betfair began testing Betfair Predicts, a new product based on a prediction markets model.