The Financial Conduct Authority on Wednesday warned football clubs, mainly in the Premier League, that sponsorship deals with unauthorised crypto businesses and trading platforms may be putting fans at risk.
The regulator said it has written directly to clubs after identifying firms using club branding to target UK consumers while providing financial services without authorisation. The FCA is treating shirt sponsorships as a distribution channel, one that carries the same authorisation and financial promotions obligations as any other route to UK retail customers.
“Millions of football fans trust their club’s badge. Clubs should not let unauthorised financial firms exploit that loyalty by putting potentially dodgy products in front of millions of fans,” said Lucy Castledine, director of consumer investments at the FCA.
The FCA said clubs face potential legal liability, money laundering risks and reputational damage. It expects every UK club to conduct due diligence on financial services sponsors before signing and on an ongoing basis.
Where the FCA has already identified concerns, it said it has spoken directly to the club involved. “Where action is needed, the FCA will take it,” the regulator said.
The FCA said it is engaging with the Government, the Premier League and the Independent Football Regulator to tackle the issue across the sport. The warning comes ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which begins on June 11, POLITICO reported.
