Californians Can Bet on Big Game Through Prediction Markets

Sports betting is illegal in California, but residents can legally make picks on the Big Game through CFTC-regulated prediction markets like Kalshi.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:15pm

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Despite the failure of sports betting ballot measures in 2022, California residents can still legally wager on the Big Game through prediction market platforms like Kalshi. These federally regulated financial institutions allow users to trade contracts on potential outcomes, providing an alternative to traditional sports betting. Kalshi is the industry leader, offering a wide range of markets including moneylines, props, and novelty bets for the big game.

Why it matters

The defeat of sports betting initiatives in California has left residents without legal options to bet on major sporting events like the Big Game. Prediction markets offer a workaround, allowing Californians to participate in betting-like activities while operating within the confines of federal regulations. This provides an outlet for those interested in wagering, while also raising questions about the future of sports betting in the state.

The details

Kalshi is the top prediction market platform available to California residents, having been in operation since 2018. The site offers a wide variety of markets for the Big Game, including traditional bets like moneylines and point spreads, as well as more unique prop bets on things like celebrity attendance, commercials, and the halftime show. Users can fund their Kalshi accounts through bank transfers, debit cards, or cryptocurrency, and the platform offers a 3.25% APY on balances over $250.

  • The Big Game is scheduled for February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara, California.
  • Kalshi has been accepting trades on sports and other prediction markets since 2018.

The players

Kalshi

A leading prediction market platform that is federally regulated by the Commodity Futures Trade Commission (CFTC) and has been operating since 2018.

Robinhood

A financial services company that began offering prediction market trading in March 2025.

Underdog

A daily fantasy sports site that partnered with Crypto.com in September 2025 to offer prediction market trading.

Polymarket

A prediction market platform that was reinstated by the federal government in 2022 after a previous ban for offering unregulated markets.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery Employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The California legislature may continue to explore options for legalizing traditional sports betting in the state, though the overwhelming defeat of ballot measures in 2022 suggests significant hurdles remain.

The takeaway

While California residents cannot legally bet on sports through traditional sportsbooks, prediction markets provide an alternative avenue for those interested in wagering on the Big Game and other events. This highlights the evolving landscape of regulated betting-like activities and the continued debate over the role of sports betting in the state.