TLDR Nine European gambling regulators issued a joint warning against unlicensed prediction markets during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Regulators cited risks including fraud, fund blocking, and financial volatility on these platforms Platforms flagged for running 24/7 with no betting limits and minimal age verification Sports federations were urged to check legality before signing prediction market partnership deals Responses vary across Europe — some countries are banning platforms while others are exploring regulation
Nine gambling regulators from across Europe have joined forces to warn the public and sports organizations about unlicensed prediction market platforms operating during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The statement was signed by authorities from Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland. It was released on Wednesday, June 18, as the tournament got underway.
What the Regulators Said
The regulators described prediction markets as platforms where users can bet on sporting, political, and geopolitical events. They said these platforms often operate with very few consumer protections in place.
The statement pointed out that many platforms run around the clock with no built-in betting limits. There are also minimal identity checks to confirm users are of legal age.
Regulators warned this creates what they called “a significant addictive cycle,” especially among young adults who are drawn to the platforms’ viral appeal.
The joint statement said platforms pose “serious risks of illegality, fund blocking, fraud through insider information, and financial volatility.”
The regulators confirmed they will take action against any platform that breaks local rules during the World Cup period. They said they are working together closely throughout the tournament.
Sports Federations Also Put on Notice
The statement went beyond warning users. Regulators also called on sports leagues, federations, and clubs to check whether prediction market companies are properly licensed before agreeing