DAZN to Embed Blockchain-Backed FIFA Prediction Market in World Cup 2026 Live Streams

A Rapid and Controversial Move From Licensing to Partnership

Prediction and betting features are set to play a much bigger role in the upcoming FIFA World Cup experience, driven by fast-moving collaborations like the newly announced deal between DAZN and ADI Predictstreet.

Through this partnership, ADI Predictstreet will be integrated across live broadcasts on DAZN—before, during, and after matches—offering interactive features such as real-time audience sentiment, live prompts, and prediction-based engagement. While the World Cup will act as the initial launch stage, the integration is expected to expand into other major leagues and sporting events available on the platform.

ADI Predictstreet operates on ADI Chain, described by its developers as the first institutional-grade Layer 2 blockchain focused on stablecoins and tokenized real-world assets in the MENA region. This marks the first consumer-oriented application built on ADI Chain. The infrastructure leverages zero-knowledge proof technology from ZKsync’s Airbender and has undergone audits by OpenZeppelin and Hacken. Additionally, ADI Chain supports settlement for a UAE Central Bank-approved dirham-backed stablecoin.

On March 26, Predict Street Ltd received approval from Gibraltar Gambling Division under the 2005 Gambling Act, becoming the first licensed prediction market operator in the region—and, according to officials, the first formally regulated in Europe. Nigel Feetham highlighted the unusually fast approval process, linking it to Gibraltar’s strategy to remain competitive following increased gambling taxes in the UK. Meanwhile, countries like Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Portugal have taken a more restrictive stance toward such platforms.

On April 2, FIFA officially named ADI Predictstreet as its first-ever prediction market partner in a multi-year agreement covering the World Cup and future tournaments. However, the platform’s planned April 9 launch has been delayed, and it currently remains in demo mode.

Reports indicate that ADI Predictstreet is not partnered with established integrity monitoring providers like IC360 or Sportradar, which are typically involved in overseeing betting activities during major events. It is also unclear whether alternative monitoring systems are in place. Furthermore, its Gibraltar license currently limits operations to local users only, despite broader global ambitions tied to its partnerships with FIFA and DAZN.

This marks the second prediction market collaboration for DAZN in 2026, following an earlier deal with Polymarket that integrates real-time probability data into live broadcasts, with plans to enable in-app trading.

DAZN CEO Shay Segev described the partnership as a step toward embedding predictive interactions directly into live sports viewing, while ADI Predictstreet CEO Dimitrios Psarrakis emphasized its potential to redefine how audiences engage with sports content.

Voice Of Osiz

At Osiz, we view the collaboration between DAZN and FIFA to integrate blockchain-powered prediction markets as a bold step toward redefining digital sports engagement. This development highlights how Web3 technologies are transforming passive viewing into interactive, data-driven experiences. The use of advanced infrastructure like Layer 2 blockchain and zero-knowledge proofs reflects a growing demand for scalable, secure, and transparent platforms. However, the evolving regulatory landscape and compliance considerations underline the importance of building robust and adaptable systems. As prediction markets gain traction, businesses must focus on delivering secure, user-centric, and compliant solutions. At Osiz, we help enterprises leverage blockchain innovation to build next-generation platforms that drive engagement, trust, and long-term growth.

Source: News.bitcoin.com