Players from the NBA, NFL, and MLB call for a ban on betting ‘unders’
Published: (May 1, 2026 at 12:57 PM EDT)
1 min read
Source: The Verge
Source: The Verge
Unions’ Call for a Ban on Betting “Unders”
The unions representing professional NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, and MLS players are urging the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to prohibit prediction‑market platforms from allowing users to bet on a player’s underperformance or injury, according to Sports Business Journal. In their letter, the unions emphasize the need for “appropriate regulations” to protect athletes and their families from “abusive and harassing behavior.”
The request comes in response to the CFTC’s call for comment on the regulation of prediction markets, such as those operated by Kalshi and Polymarket. In addition to seeking a ban on “under” bets, the unions also called for broader safeguards to prevent exploitation of athletes.
Key Points
- Leagues involved: NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS
- Platforms mentioned: Kalshi, Polymarket
- Goal: Ban “under” bets and implement broader athlete protection measures