Switzerland’s gambling regulator, the Intercantonal Gaming Authority (Gespa), has launched an investigation into FIFA+ Collect, a blockchain-based NFT platform associated with the world football governing body FIFA, following allegations that it may be violating the country’s gambling laws.
The inquiry underscores growing global scrutiny of NFT-based gaming and collectibles platforms, which often blur the line between digital assets and games of chance.
Gespa Flags Potential Breach of Swiss Gambling Rules
Gespa stated that it is examining whether FIFA+ Collect’s operations fall under the definition of a lottery or gambling service under Swiss law. The regulator clarified that if the platform offers rewards that depend on chance rather than skill, it could be classified as gambling, thereby requiring a special license to operate.
The FIFA+ Collect platform, launched in 2022, allows users to buy, sell, and trade digital collectibles, primarily moments from FIFA tournaments, on the Algorand blockchain. These collectibles often vary in rarity, and users can open “packs” containing random items, similar to trading card experiences.
Critics argue that this randomization mechanism mirrors the structure of gambling, especially when users purchase packs with real money in hopes of acquiring rare NFTs that can be resold at a profit.
FIFA Responds: “Complies with Global Digital Asset Laws”
In response to the investigation, a FIFA spokesperson stated that FIFA+ Collect is fully compliant with applicable laws and designed as a digital fan engagement tool, not a gambling product. The organization emphasized that users are not directly wagering money on uncertain outcomes but purchasing digital assets with collectible value.
FIFA further noted that the platform’s terms of service clearly prohibit speculative trading or gaming-related betting, ensuring it remains focused on fan participation rather than gambling.
Still, Swiss regulators remain cautious. Gespa officials said they are collaborating with other European gaming authorities to assess how blockchain-based collectibles fit within existing legal frameworks.
NFTs and the Global Gambling Debate
The investigation adds to a growing list of regulatory challenges facing the NFT sector, particularly where loot box or pack-opening mechanics are involved. Countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK have also questioned whether such systems constitute a form of gambling.
Earlier this year, France’s gambling regulator (ANJ) issued a warning to NFT platforms offering randomized rewards, while the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has started monitoring NFT-related “gaming” and “investment” schemes.
Legal experts argue that NFTs with variable value outcomes, such as blind packs or mystery boxes, can easily be construed as gambling products if users purchase them expecting potential monetary gain rather than simple entertainment.
The Broader Implications for Web3 Sports Collectibles
If Gespa concludes that FIFA+ Collect violates Swiss gambling law, the decision could have wider repercussions for sports organizations and blockchain startups using similar engagement models.
Over the last few years, major leagues like the NBA (Top Shot) and NFL (Rivals) have experimented with NFT platforms that allow users to collect and trade highlights or digital player cards. Many of these projects rely on randomized minting systems and secondary-market speculation, the same areas now drawing scrutiny in Switzerland.
Analysts suggest that this could push sports brands to rethink NFT structures, possibly by:
Providing transparent rarity disclosures before purchase.
Offering non-randomized sales for specific items.
Introducing age restrictions and spending caps to protect minors and reduce gambling risks.
Such steps might allow platforms to preserve fan engagement while remaining compliant with emerging digital asset regulations.
What Comes Next
Gespa’s investigation remains ongoing, and no formal accusations have been made. However, insiders indicate that the regulator could reach a preliminary conclusion by the end of the year.
If FIFA+ Collect is found in violation, Gespa could order it to cease operations in Switzerland or apply for a gambling license, a process that would subject the platform to stringent compliance and auditing requirements.
For FIFA, the probe presents a delicate moment. The organization has heavily promoted its Web3 initiatives as a way to modernize fan experiences and tap into new revenue streams. But increased scrutiny may force it to balance innovation with regulatory caution, especially in jurisdictions with robust gambling laws.