The Swiss Gambling Supervisory Authority, Gespa, has filed a criminal complaint against FIFA's NFT platform, FIFA Collect, alleging it operates unlicensed gambling through chance-based rewards. The action targets features like random drops and challenges linked to digital collectibles for international football events. Prosecutors will now review the case, which could impact FIFA's blockchain fan engagement strategies.
Background on the Complaint
In early October 2025, Gespa identified FIFA Collect as potentially violating Swiss gambling laws under the Federal Act on Gambling (BGS). The platform allows users to buy, trade, and collect NFTs featuring World Cup highlights and other international football events. Key concerns center on 'drops' and 'challenges' that require payments for a chance to win exclusive prizes, including monetary rewards determined by randomness.
FIFA Collect is part of FIFA's broader blockchain initiatives, such as the 'Right to Buy' token program launched in 2024. These tokens grant priority access to purchase tickets for the 2026 World Cup matches, bypassing standard lotteries. Tokens are sold for around $999 and can be resold on secondary markets for up to $30,000, with values fluctuating based on team performance and rarity.
Regulatory Details and Implications
Swiss law defines gambling as any activity involving a stake, chance, and prize, requiring a local license even for international operators accessible to Swiss users. As FIFA is headquartered in Zurich, the platform falls under domestic jurisdiction. Operating unlicensed gambling is a criminal offense under Article 130 of the BGS, punishable by fines or imprisonment.
Gespa's complaint is non-binding and respects confidentiality, with the authority offering to assist prosecutors but withholding further details. Director Manuel Richard noted the case's potential to disrupt FIFA's $11 billion revenue forecast for 2023-2026, where ticketing and digital sales are significant. FIFA has not publicly responded.
A recent switch from Algorand to Avalanche blockchain reportedly increased activity, possibly triggering Gespa's awareness. Legal experts suggest the outcome could set a precedent for NFTs blending digital assets with real-world rewards, prompting enhanced compliance like geo-blocks or redesigned mechanics. Non-litigation resolutions remain possible for FIFA.
