2026 World Cup: major crackdown on counterfeiting in Spain

The Spanish National Police, in coordination with Interpol and Europol, have dismantled a major football counterfeiting network targeting the 2026 World Cup market. The operation led to the seizure of over 66,000 fake jerseys and pieces of equipment, totaling more than 16 tons of merchandise.

Raids were carried out in several Spanish cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, as well as in the municipalities of Elche and Dénia. In total, 95 people have been arrested for alleged industrial property violations.

The investigation, launched last April, uncovered a large-scale trafficking operation involving counterfeit jerseys of national teams and top clubs, particularly those connected to stars like Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal. These items were intended for sale ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to authorities, the networks involved could have generated nearly €2 million in illegal profits, while causing more than €7 million in losses to official distribution channels. The investigation remains ongoing.

Nouya M'toama

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Versatile journalist specializing in sports and political news, with extensive experience across radio, print and digital media platforms.