Sorare, a popular fantasy football platform that allows users to buy, trade, and manage virtual football player cards, has been charged with unlicensed gambling in the UK. The UK Gambling Commission has launched an investigation into Sorare’s operations, stating that the platform’s activities constitute gambling under the country’s laws.
Sorare, which was founded in 2018 and has gained a large following among football fans worldwide, allows users to buy and sell virtual football player cards using Ethereum. Users can assemble teams of players from different leagues and compete against each other in virtual tournaments to earn rewards.
While Sorare has argued that its platform is a game of skill rather than chance, the Gambling Commission has taken issue with the fact that users are able to win monetary prizes based on the performance of real-life football players. The Commission has stated that this constitutes gambling, as users are essentially betting on the outcomes of real-world events.
In response to the charges, Sorare has stated that it is committed to working with the Gambling Commission to address any concerns and ensure compliance with UK gambling laws. The platform has also emphasized that it takes responsible gaming seriously and has implemented measures to prevent underage users from participating in its activities.
The news of Sorare’s charges has sparked debate among fans and industry experts, with some arguing that the platform provides an innovative and engaging way for football fans to interact with the sport, while others have raised concerns about the potential risks of gambling addiction among users.
Sorare is not the first fantasy sports platform to face legal challenges related to gambling regulations. In recent years, several states in the US have taken action against companies like DraftKings and FanDuel, alleging that their operations constitute illegal gambling.
As the investigation into Sorare’s activities continues, the platform’s future in the UK remains uncertain. In the meantime, fans and users of the platform will be eagerly awaiting further developments in this high-stakes legal battle.