Crypto Takes Center Stage at Expanded 48-Team World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to become the biggest stage for crypto yet. The expanded 48-team tournament will be hosted across North America, with Cabo Verde facing Saudi Arabia on June 26 in the group stage.

As part of its partnership with FIFA, Kraken was named the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter on June 9, giving it official branding rights tied to the tournament. This is a major coup for the US-based exchange, which will now be at the forefront of crypto-related activities surrounding the World Cup.

FIFA has also launched National Teams Dynamic Collectibles built on the Avalanche blockchain, and ADI PredictStreet became the first official prediction market partner using Chainlink's oracle technology to power its markets. These developments are expected to drive interest in crypto among football fans.