Switzerland's gambling authority, Gespa, has initiated a preliminary investigation into FIFA's innovative sale of blockchain-based Right to Buy tokens. These tokens enable fans to secure the right to purchase tickets for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup matches, raising questions about their classification under Swiss gambling laws. The publication provides the following information: the investigation aims to determine whether these tokens fall under the jurisdiction of gambling regulations.
Investigation Focus
The investigation will focus on whether the offering on collectfifacom could be considered a form of gambling. Gespa Director Manuel Richard emphasized that it is possible the tokens may fall under the jurisdiction of Swiss gambling legislation, prompting the need for further examination.
Regulatory Authorization Assessment
As part of the inquiry, Gespa will assess whether FIFA or its partners need to obtain regulatory authorization for the sale of these tokens. Notably, FIFA, which is based in Zurich, has not been accused of any misconduct and has chosen not to comment on the ongoing investigation.
Proactive Inquiry
Importantly, Gespa clarified that it had not received any complaints prior to the commencement of this inquiry, indicating that the investigation is proactive rather than reactive.
