Key facts
- FIFA is using the Avalanche blockchain for its 2026 World Cup ticketing system.
- The system has processed over 60,000 transactions on a dedicated Avalanche Layer-1 subnet.
- Users purchase 'Right to Buy' (RTB) tokens, which are NFTs, granting them the right to buy tickets.
- The FIFA Blockchain, an Avalanche subnet, can handle over 6,500 transactions per second.
- RTB tokens are tradable on FIFA's native NFT marketplace.
- Regulators in Switzerland, New York, and New Jersey are probing FIFA's ticketing practices.
FIFA is leveraging the Avalanche blockchain for its ticketing system for the 2026 World Cup, aiming to curb scalping and enhance fan engagement through digital collectibles. The system utilizes a dedicated Avalanche Layer-1 subnet, referred to as the FIFA Blockchain, which has successfully processed over 60,000 ticket-related transactions without disruption.
The core of the system involves 'Right to Buy' (RTB) tokens, a form of non-fungible token (NFT) issued on the FIFA Collect platform. These RTB tokens are not actual tickets but grant holders the right to purchase a ticket at face value if their selected team qualifies for a match. This mechanism allows fans to speculate on team performance before tickets are officially released.
The FIFA Blockchain is built on Avalanche's Subnet architecture, capable of handling over 6,500 transactions per second with sub-second finality and minimal fees. This infrastructure is designed to manage high-volume demands during ticket drops and match-day services. According to Arielle Pennington, SVP of Growth at Avalanche, FIFA's ticketing activity has significantly boosted Avalanche's transaction volume and active addresses, demonstrating the potential for seamless blockchain integration into mainstream user experiences.
Despite the technological advancements, FIFA's ticketing practices have drawn regulatory scrutiny. Swiss gambling regulator Gespa has filed a complaint, and the Attorneys General of New York and New Jersey have launched probes to evaluate whether these digital assets constitute illegal gambling services.