The 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 began on July 4, with France edging Paraguay 1-0 and Morocco dismantling Canada 3-0. But the real story for crypto watchers isn’t what’s happening on the pitch. It’s what’s happening around it.
Kraken, which was named FIFA’s first-ever Official Crypto Exchange Supporter back on June 9, is now operating at the center of the biggest sporting event in human history. With 48 teams spread across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, this is the largest World Cup ever staged. And for the first time, a cryptocurrency exchange has a seat at the table.
The crypto play behind the beautiful game
The partnership has already spawned several fan engagement initiatives. Kraken has been running ticket giveaways and contests tied to a special promotional code, FWC26, designed to pull football fans into the crypto ecosystem.
The Round of 16 matches are scheduled to run two per day from July 4 through July 7. After France and Morocco advanced on the opening day, the July 5 slate features Brazil vs. Norway and Mexico vs. England.
