UK Freezes $13.4M in Premier League Sorare Probe

The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) has frozen approximately $13.4 million held in a Premier League account as part of an investigation into unlicensed gambling activity linked to crypto gaming company Sorare, according to a report by The Sun. The Premier League had signed a four-year sponsorship agreement with Sorare in 2023 worth approximately $161 million. Sorare's product is a fantasy football platform built around NFT player cards, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé serving as brand ambassadors and investors in the company.

According to the report, the NCA obtained a freezing order from Westminster Magistrates' Court as early as January 2025 under proceeds of crime legislation. Sorare has denied any wrongdoing in connection with the allegations. The Premier League terminated its sponsorship agreement with the company following the conclusion of last season, amid the ongoing investigation.

The case raises questions about the regulatory classification of NFT-based fantasy sports products, which have occupied a gray area between traditional fantasy football and gambling under UK law. The freezing order and the league's subsequent termination of the sponsorship suggest authorities view the product's structure as warranting formal gambling-related scrutiny, despite Sorare's denial of any violations.