Blockchain technology is gradually transforming the sports industry, becoming not only a marketing tool but also a fundamental infrastructure for ticket management, identification, rights, and fan engagement. According to a statement by Dima Saksonov, founder and CEO of Atleta Network, sports today are one of the main drivers of the widespread adoption of blockchain.
This is reported by Finway
Blockchain in Sports: From Ticket Verification to Contract Automation
Saksonov emphasized that in sports leagues, teams, and stadiums, blockchain is already being used at the level of critical infrastructure for ticket verification, identification, and rights management. This helps protect against ticket fraud, makes athlete data more transparent for scouting and fantasy leagues, and allows for the automation of the sponsorship contract process.
“This cycle of blockchain teams offers ready-to-use modules for ticket verification, identification, and settlements. This enables leagues to integrate systems directly into stadium operations, opening new revenue streams and deepening fan engagement,” Saksonov stressed.
According to him, the market for blockchain solutions in sports has the potential to grow from $2.05 billion in 2024 to $10 billion by 2035. Importantly, for most users, the technological layer of blockchain is virtually invisible, while fan interaction with sports remains familiar.
Integration of Blockchain into Betting Services and Digital Assets
A striking example of blockchain implementation is the platform Chiliz, which in September 2025 acquired a controlling stake in the esports organization OG Esports. Chiliz specializes in creating digital assets for the sports sector, and its technological foundation is actively used in the Socios.com service.
Moreover, the development of fintech in sports is occurring through betting and prediction services, including Kalshi and Polymarket. These platforms were the first to integrate directly into the sports industry: the National Hockey League (NHL) signed licensing agreements with them, allowing the use of the League’s brand and promoting services during matches. This marked a significant event for the blockchain betting sector.
Polymarket plans to return to the U.S. market by the end of November 2025, focusing on the sports segment. Meanwhile, Kalshi has filed a lawsuit against the local regulator in New York after the ban on betting on sporting events, arguing that it has permission from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission and that the local ban should not apply to it.
Another step towards integrating blockchain into mainstream culture is the Truth Social initiative — a social network from Trump Media and Technology Group. The platform is preparing to launch the Truth Predict product in partnership with Crypto.com, which will allow for contracts on predictions of political, economic, and sports events. Beta testing will begin soon.
The market for prediction platforms based on blockchain technology is rapidly developing and becoming serious competition for traditional online bookmakers, displacing classic betting services.