FIFA’s Blockchain-based Tickets Draws Attention from Swiss Regulators

Switzerland’s gambling authority is examining whether FIFA’s blockchain-based “Right-to-Buy” (RTB) tokens for the 2026 World Cup violate national gambling laws, Bloomberg reported. While no misconduct has been alleged, regulators are assessing if these NFTs resemble gambling products or conditional ticket purchases.

Gespa, Switzerland’s gambling watchdog, confirmed it is reviewing the tokens but has not opened a formal investigation. The RTB tokens, available on FIFA’s official NFT marketplace, allow fans to reserve the right to buy tickets at face value if specific conditions are met — such as their chosen team qualifying for a match.

FIFA introduced the tokens ahead of the 2024 World Cup Final, offering 1,000 RTB opportunities through its Web3 partner, Modex. Prices range from $299 to $999 for the 2026 tournament across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The cost depends on the team’s odds — underdogs are cheaper, while favorites like Argentina and Brazil fetch higher prices. Many of these tokens have already sold out.

FIFA said the RTB system aims to curb chaotic ticket demand, referencing the 2022 Qatar World Cup, where 23 million fans competed for just 3.4 million available tickets.

The soccer body has been steadily expanding its Web3 strategy since 2022, launching FIFA Collect on the Algorand blockchain before migrating to Avalanche in 2025. It has also released NFTs tied to match experiences and launched its own Web3 game, FIFA Rivals, built with Mythical Games.

According to Modex CEO Francesco Abbate, Avalanche’s network allows FIFA to host a customizable blockchain ecosystem capable of handling surges during major events. With over five billion global fans, FIFA’s blockchain push could mark a new era of sports ticketing — if it clears regulatory scrutiny.