Could the U.S. Be the Next Big Proving Ground for Sports and Crypto?

On March 7, 2025, the Oval Office Crypto Summit turned heads by putting soccer front and center in the conversation. FIFA President Gianni Infantino floated the idea of a FIFA Coin to connect with the sport’s five billion fans, prompting President Donald Trump to  joke that it might end up being worth more than FIFA itself. With the U.S. co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the summit signaled growing interest in sports-driven digital assets—and the potential for projects like Chiliz, which has tokenized over 70 sports teams worldwide, alongside others, to embark on a U.S. expansion.

Infantino’s FIFA Coin concept tapped into a broader trend: sports organizations exploring blockchain to engage fans and unlock new revenue streams – catching attention at a time when regulatory attitudes in the U.S. seem to be softening. For soccer, this could be a pivotal moment—especially with the FIFA 2026 World Cup on the horizon. The tournament, marking its 23rd edition, will be the first to feature 48 teams across three host countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States. As the world’s most prestigious football event grows, so does the global soccer market, valued at $55.97 billion in 2024 and at a 3.9% CAGR expected to reach $70.29 billion by 2030*.  

The U.S looks keen to capitalize on this opportunity—both on and off the pitch, potentially revitalising the country’s sports blockchain scene.

*Future data stats.

U.S. crypto policy is shifting, with the incoming Trump administration favoring innovation over the Biden era’s tough enforcement. The SEC’s Crypto Task Force is also clarifying securities laws, easing market entry. For sports blockchain players, this means less legal risk, better access to U.S. leagues, and a shot at the massive American fanbase—especially with the 2026 World Cup nearing. The time for key players to step up is fast approaching.

The U.S. sports blockchain footprint is relatively light as it stands. But there’s more room now for sports blockchain operators to up their game.

Fan Token creators Chiliz have history stateside with a string of partnerships with the NBA, NFL, NHL and MLB that stalled due to regulatory roadblocks under the former administration. Now, with hints from CEO Alexandre Dreyfus on X about reigniting activity in the U.S., the timing could align.

When your team send you a plan for @fantokens x @chiliz in the US