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- FIFA teams up with Avalanche to launch its own dedicated blockchain platform for digital fan engagement.
- NFT platform FIFA Collect begins migration to the new Avalanche-based network with wallet changes required.
FIFA has finally gone further into the digital world. Instead of just relying on third-party platforms like before, they have now officially partnered with Avalanche to build an exclusive blockchain network: FIFA Blockchain.
This is not just about changing infrastructure, this is a statement of intent. FIFA wants to have its own home in the Web3 space, not just relying on others.
A New Digital Home for FIFA Collectors
This move was announced a few days after FIFA Collect, FIFA’s NFT platform, began a massive migration from Algorand and Polygon to this new network. Collectors are asked to switch to wallets that are more commonly used in the Ethereum ecosystem, such as MetaMask. FIFA also promises a fully assisted migration process with official guidance, so don’t panic if you have NFTs of overhead kicks in 2022.
FIFA seems to really want to reorganize their digital relationship with fans. The proof is, last March, FIFA President Gianni Infantino openly announced plans to explore its own digital currency—FIFA Coin.
In the CNF report, he said the main goal is to strengthen global engagement with fans. Although not many details have been announced, there is an opportunity for cooperation with external partners to make this happen. Imagine if you could buy match tickets or merchandise directly using FIFA Coin?
Clubs, Coins, and Collectibles: The Game Expands
While FIFA is busy building its blockchain foundation, around the world, football clubs and platforms are also getting more familiar with the crypto space. Take Al Ahly FC, a big club from Egypt, for example. Just on May 13, they officially joined FIFA Collect. Their fans will be able to buy and store official digital memorabilia—from legendary jerseys to iconic celebration moments.
Their CEO, Amir Tawfik, called this part of the club’s digital transformation. He said it was to make interaction with fans more immersive. Well, who knows, maybe Al Ahly fans will be able to vote on jersey designs via NFT?
On the other hand, there is also a more unusual story. Real Bedford FC, an amateur club in the 8th tier of the English Premier League, has received an investment of £3.5 million from the Bitcoin billionaire brothers Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss.
The club, owned by crypto podcaster Peter McCormack, is known for its “bitcoin club” branding. Their target? Moved up to the Football League in a decade. This might be the first time crypto bros have jumped straight into the field, hoping it won’t just go viral on X.
Not enough? OneFootball, a football social and media platform with millions of followers, has just launched a token airdrop program called COSTA. No need to pay, anyone can join. One participant will even get a token jackpot.
This airdrop is supported by a funding injection of around $307 million from Animoca Brands. If you’re a football fan and also drooling over free tokens, now’s the time to try your luck.
