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The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority has warned football clubs, including Premier League sides, over sponsorship deals with unauthorized crypto firms and trading platforms.
The regulator said such deals could expose fans to financial harm and leave clubs facing legal, anti-money-laundering and reputational risks. It said some firms may be using high-profile sponsorships to target UK supporters even though they are not allowed to operate in Britain.
FCA Tells Clubs to Vet Crypto Sponsors
The FCA said it has written to clubs about existing partnerships and urged them to strengthen checks on potential sponsors. Lucy Castledine, the FCA’s director of consumer investments, said clubs should not let unauthorized financial firms exploit fan loyalty.
The watchdog said supporters using such firms risk losing all their money and are unlikely to have access to UK regulatory protections. Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock also said fans should be able to trust that companies linked to their clubs are safe and accountable.
Crypto Promotions to UK Fans Must Meet FCA Rules
The warning comes as UK financial-promotion rules already apply to crypto products and services. The FCA’s regime requires promotions aimed at UK consumers to be clear, fair and not misleading.
Firms marketing crypto must also use prominent risk warnings and other consumer-protection measures. That means clubs could face risk if a sponsor promotes crypto or trading products to UK fans without proper authorization.
Man City Made €408M From Commercial Deals
The commercial backdrop helps explain why the issue is receiving regulatory attention. Commercial income has surpassed broadcasting revenue for some top clubs, with Manchester City generating €408 million in commercial revenue in 2025 compared with €332 million from broadcasting.
That reliance increases the importance of sponsor checks when a partner offers financial products to UK supporters.
FCA Says it Will Act Over Risky Sponsorships
The FCA said it has already contacted clubs where it identified concerns. The regulator said it will act where necessary.
Its message to football teams is that clubs should check whether crypto and trading sponsors are allowed to promote or provide services in the UK before putting those brands in front of fans.
