Prediction market platforms face massive crackdown by European regulators during FIFA World cup 2026 - Cryptopolitan

Crypto Insight Summary: * 2026 FIFA World Cup could add $5–$10 billion in prediction market trading. * Kalshi signed a sponsorship deal with Argentina’s AFA alongside Messi. * European regulators warn that the unlicensed sites are illegal gambling and plan to block access. **Prediction markets are expected to be greatly impacted by the 2026 FIFA World Cup.** According to a June 2026 Bernstein analysis, trade on both regulated and decentralized exchanges might increase by $5 billion to $10 billion. Since online betting sites now compete with established sportsbooks for clients during one of the largest sporting events in the world, the event has become crucial for the industry. Prediction markets’ collaborations with significant soccer organizations have contributed to this expansion. Kalshi recently became an [official sponsor of the Asociación del Fútbol Argentino](https://news.kalshi.com/p/kalshi-afa-partnership-2026-fifa-world-cup) (AFA) for the 2026 World Cup and announced the partnership in a joint Instagram post with Lionel Messi.  Lionel Messi launches Kalshi’s Argentina partnership for the FIFA World Cup. Source: [@Leomessi](https://www.instagram.com/p/DZk2nlwGood/?img_index=1) Kalshi will receive the match data required to fulfill its prediction market contracts from Genius Sports, the AFA’s official data provider, as part of the agreement. Crypto Insight Analysis: Direction: Bearish Prediction Market Tokens Impact: Major Impact Horizon: Mid-term (1-8 weeks) Reasoning: European crackdown on unlicensed prediction markets during FIFA World Cup 2026 will significantly impact trading volumes and token valuations.