FC Barcelona has announced that blockchain-powered fan engagement and rewards platform Socios.com will become a strategic technology partner accelerating FC Barcelona’s blockchain, NFT and digital assets, and Web3 strategies.
The partnership will see Socios.com owner and technology provider, Chiliz, invest $100M in Barça Studios to acquire a 24.5% stake in the club’s digital content creation and distribution hub.
According to the official newsletter of FC Barcelona, we inform you that, the sale has been made in accordance with the authorisation of the General Assembly of FC Barcelona Members held last October 23.
Decrypt.co reports that, the investment comes after Socios.com began collaborating with the club back in February of 2020 with the launch of FC Barcelona’s "fan token" called BAR.
According to a press release from Socios.com, the investment will enable the club to build better NFT and metaverse projects, while being able to refine its approach to engaging with fans and building community through the use of digital assets.
Shortly after Socios.com disclosed the deal, FC Barcelona confirmed the news on Twitter, stating it will help the club advance its “audiovisual, blockchain, NFT and Web.3 strategy.”
The partnership intends to create opportunities for the use of BAR tokens that extend beyond Socios.com’s platform.
“We are passionate about the role that technology can play in building communities that bring fans closer to their teams and each other,” said Alexandre Dreyfus, CEO of Socios.com and Chiliz. “Barça Studios can now leverage our technology, expertise, and global scale.”
Fans have already bought over €39 million ($40.07 million) worth of BAR tokens from Socios.com, regarding the corporation, which permits access to an engage-to-earn outlet. Contributing to the population can direct to VIP tickets for enthusiasts, products, and other chances, like being able to play on the key at FC Barcelona’s home stadium, Camp Nou.
Adil Huseynzada, CEO and co-founder of SKAUT GLOBAL, LLC., expressed his opinion on the recent growing interest in NFT, especially in football:
"Now is the right time to create deeper and new digital experiences between fans and the leagues, clubs and athletes they support. Fans don't want to passively engage with football games, they want to be a part of what they are fans of and invest in what they love. At SKAUT, we are happy to be part of this industry and support efforts to bring a new fan culture to traditional sports."
Last week, the first FC Barcelona NFT inspired by Johan Cruyff, "In a Way, Immortal", was sold for $693,000 at Sotheby's auction in New York. With the purchase of the NFT, the owner becomes a Barça Digital Ambassador, which gives them the chance to enjoy various VIP benefits and experiences with the Club. Aside from being the sole owner of the NFT, the buyer will be able to enjoy a number of ‘money can’t buy’ experiences.