NFL Urges CFTC to Tighten Rules on Sports Prediction Markets
The National Football League is calling on the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to strengthen oversight of sports prediction markets. In a July 27 letter to CFTC Chair Michael Selig, the NFL said the agency’s draft rules do not go far enough. The league wants stronger safeguards for game integrity and consumer protection.
NFL Focuses on Game Integrity
The NFL’s highest priority is protecting the integrity of its games. The letter states this integrity is also vital for stable trading of event contracts linked to NFL games and for shielding traders. While the CFTC proposal includes some useful ideas, the league insists key areas need major improvements.
Main Concerns with the Draft Rules
The NFL argues the CFTC must better define contracts that closely resemble traditional gaming. It wants limits on markets that are easy to manipulate by one person, depend on discretionary officiating, or involve outcomes known in advance. The league also criticizes the 10-day pre-approval process, calling it too short and potentially protective of already listed contracts.
Specific Requests for Stronger Protections
The NFL wants clear rules against the use of material non-public information. It recommends mandatory league-specific prohibited bettor lists instead of platform self-policing. Additional demands include a ban on margin trading, advertising restrictions, and a minimum age of 21 for participants.
Contrast with Other Leagues and CFTC Policy Shift
Unlike the NHL and Major League Baseball, which have partnered with platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, the NFL continues to push for tighter controls. In March it asked both companies to reduce certain contract offerings. Meanwhile the CFTC has moved away from earlier bans, treating prediction markets as legitimate derivatives and supporting their growth under clearer federal rules.
