As the tournament expands to 48 teams and 104 matches, the massive surge in betting demand is creating a prime target for illegal gambling syndicates.

Rising Integrity Threats

The stakes have never been higher. With hosting sites in close proximity to major gambling hubs and a history of illegal betting operations tied to past events, officials are on high alert. Recent scandals involving professional athletes manipulated for minor in-game events (such as deliberate yellow cards) have forced FIFA, the FBI, and Interpol to establish a unified front against match-fixing.

Global Crackdown on Money Laundering

A key focus of this coalition is disrupting the flow of illicit funds. Estimates from the UNODC suggest that $140 billion is laundered annually through unregulated sports betting. Law enforcement agencies are now moving beyond simple monitoring, focusing on cutting off the financial lifelines of organized crime. The message from international watchdogs is clear: there is no compliant market without total sporting integrity.