While billions of football fans are focused on whether England or Argentina will punch their ticket to the World Cup final on July 15, the crypto industry is watching something else entirely: the largest real-world stress test for blockchain-based fan engagement ever attempted.

Kraken, Avalanche, and the crypto infrastructure behind the tournament

Kraken secured its place as FIFA’s Official Crypto Exchange Supporter back in June 2026. That deal was historic, marking the first time a cryptocurrency exchange has held an official sponsorship role at a World Cup.

Kraken has been actively deploying on-chain assets aimed at enhancing fan engagement throughout the knockout rounds, ramping up its initiatives as the…