Kraken's FIFA Deal Signals Crypto's Growing Presence in Sports

England's national team dominated Group L at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a 2-0 victory over Panama on June 27 and finishing atop the group with 7 points. This win sends the Three Lions into the knockout stage with momentum.

The partnership between Kraken and FIFA marked a significant milestone in the convergence of crypto and sports. As the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter, Kraken became the first platform to join forces with FIFA in North America and Europe under this banner.

England's path through Group L was impressive, opening with a 4-2 win over Croatia on June 17, followed by a goalless draw against Ghana on June 23. Jude Bellingham found the net in the 62nd minute, and Harry Kane doubled the lead in the 67th minute.

The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams, an expansion from the previous 32-team format, and marks the first jointly hosted tournament by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. This change has led to increased activity surrounding fan tokens and prediction markets, with token markets responding to match events like Bellingham's goal.