Britain’s National Crime Agency has frozen more than $13.6 million held in a Premier League bank account as part of an investigation linked to crypto fantasy sports company Sorare. The funds represent the first payment from a major sponsorship agreement between Sorare and the English soccer league.
The NCA obtained a freezing order from Westminster Magistrates’ Court in January 2025 under the Proceeds of Crime Act. The order covers £10,024,041.33 held in a Barclays account belonging to Football Association Premier League Limited. Investigators say the measure aims to prevent the funds from being moved while they examine potential links to third-party criminal activity.
The Premier League itself is not suspected of wrongdoing.
Sorare Deal Comes Under Scrutiny
The frozen funds came from Sorare’s four-year sponsorship agreement with the Premier League. The partnership began in 2023 and covered digital player cards featuring athletes from all 20 clubs. The agreement reportedly carried a total value of about £120 million.
The partnership ended after the 2025-26 season as regulatory scrutiny around Sorare intensified.
Sorare operates a fantasy soccer platform built around digital cards. Users assemble teams and earn points based on real players’ performances. The company initially relied heavily on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency before expanding its payment options.
The Gambling Commission separately charged Sorare with providing gambling facilities without an operating license. Sorare disputes the allegations and maintains that its product is a skill-based fantasy game rather than gambling.
Regulatory Pressure Mounts on Crypto Sports
The case highlights growing scrutiny of cryptocurrency businesses operating in sports and entertainment. High-profile sponsorships can provide crypto companies with significant exposure to mainstream audiences, while regulators continue to examine whether some products fall under existing financial or gambling rules.
The Premier League is seeking to vary the freezing order as the investigation continues. Mean while, Sorare faces a separate legal process over the gambling allegations, with a trial expected in 2027.
The NCA’s action does not establish that the frozen funds are criminal proceeds. Authorities must still determine whether the money has any connection to suspected wrongdoing.
