Popular prediction platform Kalshi will be the first front-of-kit sponsor in the new Baller League USA, a 10-team indoor soccer competition.
Key Takeaways
- Kalshi is the first corporate sponsor of the new league.
- Front-of-kit gambling sponsors will soon be banned in the EPL.
- Baller League USA features a host of well-known names.
Baller League launched in Germany in 2024 before making its way to the U.K. this year. The American rendition will kick off in Miami in February 2026. Kalshi, ahead of the curve once again, was announced as the first corporate sponsor for the upcoming season.
Six players on each team will compete in an arcade-style competition that includes 15-minute halves, “gamechanger” rules in the final three minutes of each half, and a healthy infusion of popular figures as team managers.
“At some point we’re going to have to put more focus on revenue and different types of revenue streams, and we’re certainly thinking about those for the long term,” Baller League USA managing director Ged Tarpey said, according to the Sports Business Journal. “But Season 1 is just that: find the right few partners, launch with them, prove the model.”
So, what is Baller League?
— Baller League (@BallerLeagueUK) September 17, 2025
If you don't know already, let @ishowspeedsui explain... pic.twitter.com/XjYugYu5Wv
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Terms of the arrangement
Front-of-shirt sponsorship means that Kalshi’s logo will be front and center on every Baller League jersey. The designation is highly coveted and can cost a hefty chunk in various professional sports leagues.
Starting next season, however, the English Premier League will enforce a ban on front-of-kit gambling sponsors to help reduce their prevalence and promote responsible gaming.
Kalshi’s deal with Baller League USA will also see its prediction markets added to match broadcasts and on screens inside game venues. The platform will also have the right to stream Baller League on its channels and operate branded streaming booths on matchdays.
Financial terms were not revealed.
As Kalshi continues to ingratiate itself with the world of sports thanks to its event contracts. While the operator recently partnered with news networks CNN and CNBC, it also inked a deal with the NHL. This marked the first time that a North American professional sports league partnered with prediction platforms (Kalshi competitor Polymarket also signed as a partner.)
Coming soon
The first season of Baller League USA will feature many well-known faces, both in and separate from the world of sports.
Popular YouTuber iShowSpeed, Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldinho, multi-time Olympic champion and world record sprinter Usain Bolt, NFL receiver Odell Beckham Jr., comedian Druski, and other streamers Kai Cenat, AMP, and xQc will be involved.
Tarpey said the league received more than 10,000 player applications, including from former professional players.
BALLER LEAGUE IS TAKING OVER THE USA! 🇺🇸
— Baller League (@BallerLeagueUK) September 16, 2025
The wait is over. @ishowspeedsui has cooked up something crazy 🔥
The new era of soccer starts NOW pic.twitter.com/FK78rvT3bB
