FIFA onboards Kraken as World Cup 2026 sponsor

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, the world football–governing body, has announced a partnership with cryptocurrency platform Kraken, bringing it on board as the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

As per the deal, Kraken will work on a host of fan-focused activations and offerings throughout the tournament.

The first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US, kicks off on June 11, 2026. Its final is scheduled to be held on July 19, 2026.

Romy Gai, FIFA Chief Business Officer, commented:

“Innovation has always played a central role in how FIFA evolves and enhances the fan experience. As we prepare to welcome the world to the biggest FIFA World Cup in history, we are delighted to partner with Kraken, an organisation that shares our commitment to innovation and technology. Together, we look forward to exploring new ways to connect supporters with the tournament, creating memorable experiences that bring fans closer to the game and the moments that make the FIFA World Cup so special.” 

Arjun Sethi, Co-CEO, Payward and Kraken, added:

“Football is the one thing that moves the whole planet at once. Over seven weeks, six billion people will watch the same game, across every country and every language. Money should work the same way. Football has always crossed borders. So does crypto. For most of history, the best markets were open only to the few. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is where we show everyone else what they’ve been missing: an open, borderless financial system that anyone can join with a phone in their pocket. This isn’t a future concept. It’s here.”