UK Crime Agency Freezes $13.5 Million Premier League Account Over Crypto Probe

The UK’s National Crime Agency has frozen more than 10 million pounds, around $13.5 million, held in a Premier League bank account as part of an ongoing investigation. The frozen funds are believed to be tied to the first payment from Sorare’s four-year, $140 million sponsorship agreement with the league, which was signed in 2023 and ended last season. Authorities have made clear there is no suggestion of wrongdoing by the Premier League itself.

Investigation Aims to Prevent Fund Dissipation

The freezing order was granted by Westminster Magistrates’ Court in January 2025 under the Proceeds of Crime Act. An agency spokesperson said the order exists to stop the money from being moved or spent while investigators examine possible connections between the funds and alleged criminal activity involving a third party. The specific offense under investigation has not been disclosed, and both the Premier League and Sorare have declined to comment further.

Wider Scrutiny of Crypto Deals in Football

The development comes as UK regulators continue cracking down on cryptocurrency sponsorships within football. The Financial Conduct Authority has previously warned Premier League clubs that partnering with unauthorized crypto companies could violate financial regulations. Separately, Sorare already faces a Gambling Commission prosecution after being charged in 2024 with running unlicensed gambling operations, marking the first such case against a blockchain-based platform under UK gambling law. Sorare has denied wrongdoing in both matters.

About Sorare and the Ongoing Legal Process

Sorare operates a fantasy football platform where users collect and trade digital player cards, originally built around cryptocurrency payments before adding cash transactions in 2023.

The company has featured well known athletes as ambassadors, including Lionel Messi, who announced his international retirement this week. The Premier League is currently seeking changes to the terms of the freezing order, which is set to expire on September 14, with a court hearing held Monday.