Football Clubs Warned About Risky Crypto Sponsors
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has issued warnings to several football clubs—including Premier League teams—about deals with crypto companies that may lack proper licensing.
Rising Risk of Illegal Partnerships
FCA fraud unit head Fiona Mackinnon‑Miller noted an uptick in clubs signing with firms that appear to operate illegally. These partners often:
- Offer financial services without the required approval
- Promote products in ways that violate UK law
Such arrangements expose clubs to legal, operational, and reputational harm.
Senior FCA Officer’s Call to Action
Lucy Castledine, a senior FCA officer, emphasized that crypto firms can breach UK rules by providing services without a license. She warned:
- Fans trust their club’s brand; shady firms should not exploit that loyalty
- A logo on a shirt only confirms sponsorship, not authorization
- Fans should verify sponsors via the FCA’s Firm Checker tool before purchasing any financial product
Government Support
Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock echoed the FCA’s stance, acknowledging sponsorships’ importance for football’s financial health while insisting fans deserve assurance that linked companies are responsible and safe.
Commercial Revenue Drives Targeting
The growing reliance on commercial revenue makes clubs prime targets for crypto firms seeking visibility through high‑profile partnerships. For instance, Manchester City earned more from sponsorships than broadcast rights in 2025 (Deloitte). This shift raises concerns that unlicensed firms use club sponsorships to reach large audiences while evading regulatory oversight.
Collaborative Response
The FCA is collaborating with the government, the Premier League, and a new independent football regulator to address this issue. Earlier in 2023, UK lawmakers cautioned clubs against using fan tokens due to the risks posed by unregulated digital assets marketed to supporters.
