Sorare, the popular blockchain-based fantasy football platform, has pleaded not guilty to accusations made by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) that it has been operating unlicensed gambling services in the UK.
The legal dispute between Sorare and the UKGC began earlier this year when the regulatory body launched an investigation into the platform’s operations. The UKGC alleged that Sorare’s use of blockchain technology to create and trade digital football cards, known as Sorare cards, constituted a form of gambling under UK law.
Sorare has vehemently denied these accusations, stating that its platform is a game of skill rather than chance, and therefore should not be subject to gambling regulations. The company has argued that users are not betting money on the outcome of football matches, but instead are using their football knowledge and strategic skills to build and manage virtual teams.
In a statement released to the press, Sorare CEO Nicolas Julia said, “We firmly believe that Sorare is a legitimate and lawful platform that offers a unique and innovative way for football fans to engage with the sport they love. We have always been transparent about how our platform operates and are confident that we will be able to prove our case in court.”
Despite Sorare’s claims of innocence, the UKGC has taken a firm stance against the platform, issuing a formal notice of non-compliance and threatening to take legal action if Sorare does not obtain the necessary licenses to operate within the UK.
The outcome of this legal dispute could have far-reaching implications for the future of blockchain-based fantasy sports platforms in the UK and beyond. As the popularity of these platforms continues to grow, regulators will be faced with the challenge of determining how to classify and regulate these new forms of online gaming.
Sorare’s case is set to be heard in the High Court later this year, where both sides will have the opportunity to present their arguments and evidence. In the meantime, the platform remains operational, and users can continue to buy, sell, and trade Sorare cards as usual.
For now, football fans and blockchain enthusiasts alike will be watching closely as this legal battle unfolds, eager to see how it will shape the future of the fantasy sports industry.