Crypto Sponsorships Are Transforming Modern Sports

With millions of fans now seeing crypto logos on sports jerseys, the connection between digital currencies and global sports has quickly grown into a massive, multi-million-dollar industry. This surge of investment is changing how teams operate while helping crypto brands gain wider public trust and recognition.

Even with ongoing regulations and market ups and downs, cryptocurrency companies invested more than $565 million in sports partnerships during the 2024/25 season. This 20 percent increase shows their strong focus on reaching the global fan community. To understand how deep this trend runs, let’s take a closer look at some of the top sports teams sponsored by crypto companies and how these partnerships are reshaping the future of global sports.

1. Manchester City (Premier League) - OKX

Manchester City's relationship with crypto exchange OKX represents one of the most comprehensive partnerships in sports. The deal began in March 2022 when OKX signed as the official cryptocurrency partner, then expanded in July 2022 to include training kit sponsorship for the 2022/23 season.

The partnership reached new heights in June 2023 with a $70 million expansion that placed OKX branding on the left sleeve of both men's and women's first-team jerseys. Since the sponsorship started, Manchester City won the Premier League title in 2022/23, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League, completing a historic treble.

The deal extends beyond visible branding into Web3 innovation, including NFT collaborations and metaverse experiences featuring City players. OKX's investment has coincided with one of the club's most successful periods in history, marking a milestone in crypto sports sponsorships across global football.

Deal Dates:Began in March 2022 (Official Cryptocurrency Partner); expanded in July 2022 (Training Kit Sponsor); expanded again in June 2023 ($70 million left-sleeve jersey sponsorship).

2. Chelsea (Premier League) - BingX

Chelsea partnered with the cryptocurrency exchange BingX as their official training wear partner. This means BingX’s logo appears on Chelsea’s training gear and in behind-the-scenes videos, giving the company major exposure to the club’s huge global audience.

BingX picked Chelsea because of the club’s worldwide popularity and forward-thinking spirit. The partnership also includes online activities that aim to help football fans learn more about crypto trading.

Since forming this partnership, Chelsea has continued to perform strongly in the Premier League and European tournaments, keeping their reputation as one of England’s top football clubs even after recent ownership changes.

Deal Date:The partnership was announced in January 2024.

3. Arsenal (Premier League) - Bitpanda

Arsenal began working with the Austrian cryptocurrency exchange Bitpanda as an official partner. The agreement shows Arsenal’s focus on welcoming new financial technology brands while strengthening global business connections.

Bitpanda uses Arsenal’s massive international fanbase, especially in Europe and Asia, to boost its brand visibility. The collaboration includes digital content projects and fan engagement campaigns across online platforms.

Since the start of this relationship, Arsenal has stayed competitive in the Premier League, finishing second in the 2022/23 season and regularly fighting for a Champions League spot while remaining near the top of the table.

Deal Date:Announced on August 14, 2025.

4. Tottenham Hotspur (Premier League) - Kraken

Tottenham Hotspur signed with the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken in a multi-year sleeve sponsorship deal that puts Kraken’s logo on the team’s playing kits. The agreement shows Spurs’ effort to grow their income through creative and modern collaborations.

Krakenselected Tottenham because of the club’s ambitious vision, state-of-the-art stadium, and large international fanbase. The collaboration also features online engagement projects aimed at introducing cryptocurrency to the club’s tech-minded supporters.

Since the start of this partnership, Spurs have regularly competed in European tournaments, with appearances in the Champions League and Europa League helping to showcase Kraken’s brand to audiences around the world.

Deal Date:Date is not publicly listed, but the deal was announced in early 2024.

5. Nottingham Forest (Premier League) - Floki

Nottingham Forest entered into a sponsorship deal with Floki (the FLOKI cryptocurrency) for the 2024/25 Premier League season. The agreement includes shirt branding, giving Floki rare exposure as one of the few meme coins featured in top-flight football.

The collaboration reflects Floki’s goal of building credibility and global recognition through mainstream sports investments. For Forest, their long-awaited return to the Premier League made this partnership a fitting opportunity to blend the club’s history with the growing world of digital finance.

Since then, Nottingham Forest has continued strengthening their Premier League position, using sponsorship support from Floki and other partners to fuel their ambitions in England’s top division.

Deal Date:A precise deal date is not publicly listed, but the sponsorship is for the 2024/25 Premier League season.

6. Everton (Premier League) - Stake.com

Everton entered a front-of-shirt sponsorship deal with crypto casino platform Stake.com, a partnership valued at a significant annual amount. The agreement made Everton one of several Premier League clubs to feature a crypto-related brand prominently on their kits.

The collaboration with Stake.com includes online fan engagement campaigns and exclusive digital content. The platform has been rapidly expanding its sports sponsorships worldwide, seeing football as a key driver of brand growth and visibility.

Everton has used revenue from this and other sponsorships to support club operations and maintain their Premier League status, despite recent seasons marked by tough competition and relegation battles.

Deal Date:Announced on June 9, 2022.

7. Aston Villa (Premier League) - Socios.com

Aston Villa entered a collaboration with Socios.com to launch fan token projects that build on the club’s proud history and global appeal. Under new ownership, the Birmingham side has made digital innovation a key part of its modernization strategy.

Through Socios.com, Villa aims to boost fan engagement using blockchain technology, giving supporters around the world the chance to vote in club polls and enjoy exclusive experiences. The club sees Web3 as a powerful way to strengthen its connection with fans everywhere.

Since adopting crypto partnerships, Aston Villa has returned to European competition and pushed for higher Premier League finishes, showing that their digital progress has gone hand in hand with success on the pitch.

Deal Date:The partnership for the Fan Token was announced on August 11, 2021.

8. West Ham United (Premier League) - Socios.com

West Ham United teamed up with Socios.com to boost their digital fan engagement and bring supporters closer to the club. The partnership uses blockchain technology to let fans take part in polls and enjoy exclusive content and experiences.

This collaboration highlights West Ham’s commitment to adopting new technology that helps build stronger connections with fans around the world. Supporters who hold tokens can join in certain club decisions and unlock special rewards.

West Ham has continued to perform well in the Premier League and European competitions, with the London Stadium serving as a world-class venue that appeals to both fans and commercial partners alike.

Deal Date:A precise deal date for the Socios.com partnership is not publicly listed, but the club launched its Fan Token in early 2021.

9. Crystal Palace (Premier League) - EToro

Crystal Palace and the online trading platform eToro have sealed a multi-year partnership. This new agreement includes highly visible branding at the club and digital outreach campaigns, linking the team to a platform where users can trade both traditional assets and cryptocurrencies.

eToro chose Palace for their Premier League visibility and South London fanbase. The partnership allows eToro to reach football audiences interested in both traditional investing and cryptocurrency trading.

Crystal Palace has established themselves as a steady Premier League club, avoiding relegation battles while occasionally challenging for European competition spots under consistent management.

Deal Dates:The partnership began in 2018; the most recent renewal (expanding to include the Women's team) was on July 22, 2025.

10. Newcastle United (Premier League) - BYDFi

Newcastle United's growing commercial power was cemented in 2025 with a new partnership with BYDFi, a cryptocurrency derivatives exchange. This deal, one of many secured since the club's ownership change, aligns with their ambitious project to become a top-tier European club.

BYDFi selected Newcastle for their massive fanbase and growing competitive stature. The partnership includes branding visibility and digital engagement opportunities targeting Newcastle's passionate Geordie supporters, mirroring similar deals with sports teams sponsored by crypto companies in USA.

Newcastle has dramatically improved their competitive position in the Premier League, qualifying for Champions League football and establishing themselves as a rising force in English football with significant investment.

Deal Date:A precise deal date is not publicly listed, but the deal was announced in 2025.

11. Wolverhampton Wanderers (Premier League) - LAKE (LAK3)

Wolverhampton Wanderers partnered with LAKE (LAK3), a cryptocurrency project, as part of their commercial strategy. The deal demonstrates Wolves' willingness to engage with emerging blockchain platforms.

The LAKE partnership provides Wolves with alternative revenue streams while giving the crypto project visibility in the Premier League. The club's international ownership has encouraged exploration of digital sponsorship opportunities.

Wolves have maintained Premier League status and competed for European qualification spots, demonstrating competitive stability that attracts diverse partnership opportunities from traditional and crypto sponsors alike.

Deal Date:July 2024.

12. Leicester City (Championship) - EToro

The partnership between Leicester City and eToro has proven resilient. Though the deal began during the club's Premier League years, the trading platform demonstrated remarkable loyalty by choosing to stick with Leicester following their relegation to the Championship.

eToro chose Leicester for their remarkable story and loyal fanbase. The partnership survived the club's drop to the Championship, demonstrating eToro's commitment to long-term relationships rather than fair-weather sponsorship.

Leicester City, the 2015/16 Premier League champions, has been competing for promotion back to the top flight, with the eToro partnership supporting their financial operations throughout the journey.

Deal Date:Leicester City was one of several clubs whose partnership with eToro was announced on September 17, 2020.

13. Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1) - Crypto.com

In a move cementing its position at the intersection of sport and digital finance, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) announced a multi-year partnership with Crypto.com. The exchange will serve as the club's official cryptocurrency platform, providing exclusive digital collectibles designed to directly engage PSG's enormous worldwide fanbase.

The partnership aligns with Crypto.com's broader strategy of investing heavily in European football to build brand recognition among the best sports teams sponsored by crypto companies worldwide.

Since joining forces, PSG has secured multiple Ligue 1 titles and domestic cup victories, maintaining their dominance in French football while expanding their digital fan engagement capabilities through the Crypto.com partnership.

Deal Date:September 2021.

14. Atlético Madrid (La Liga) - Kraken

Atlético Madrid has secured a high-profile sleeve sponsorship deal with the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken. This agreement marks a significant step for crypto's growing presence in Spanish football and aligns with Kraken's strategy to expand its market reach across multiple top European clubs.

The deal positions Kraken's branding prominently during Atlético's matches in La Liga and European competitions. Kraken has focused on partnerships with competitive, technically sound clubs that match their brand values and European growth strategy.

Atlético Madrid has remained a competitive force in La Liga and UEFA competitions throughout this partnership, maintaining their reputation as one of Spain's elite clubs under manager Diego Simeone.

Deal Date:Announced on July 11, 2024.

15. FC Barcelona (La Liga) - Socios.com

Barcelona and Socios.com sealed one of football's largest Web3 deals when the fan engagement platform invested a massive $100 million into Barça Studios in August 2022. This substantial investment is designed to quickly advance the club's digital content strategy and establish robust, long-term digital revenue streams.

The deal goes beyond traditional sponsorship, giving fans voting rights on club decisions through $BAR fan tokens on the Chiliz blockchain. Barcelona was among the first major clubs to embrace fan token technology, recognizing its potential to engage global supporters and align with broader decentralized finance trends.

Barcelona has used these digital revenues to help navigate financial challenges while remaining competitive in La Liga. The partnership demonstrates how crypto can provide alternative funding sources for even the world's biggest clubs.

Deal Date:August 2, 2022.

16. AS Monaco (Ligue 1) - Socios.com

Recognizing the power of modern technology, AS Monaco entered a partnership with Socios.com to introduce Fan Tokens. This strategic move allows the club to tap into blockchain's potential for generating innovative revenue streams while building closer digital connections with supporters all over the world.

The Socios.com partnership allows Monaco to offer voting rights and exclusive experiences to token holders worldwide. The deal reflects Monaco's forward-thinking approach to commercial partnerships in the digital age.

Monaco has competed consistently in Ligue 1 and European competitions, maintaining their status as one of France's top clubs while developing young talent and building for sustained success.

Deal Date:Announced on November 24, 2021.

17. Bayern Munich (Bundesliga) - Bitpanda

In a multi-year deal, Bayern Munich cemented its commitment to the digital finance sector by naming Bitpanda as its new official crypto trading partner and Platinum Partner. This agreement brings together Germany's most successful football club and one of Europe's leading, regulated investment platforms for a long-term strategic alliance.

Bitpanda chose Bayern for their unmatched German fanbase and European prestige. The partnership includes digital engagement initiatives and co-branded content targeting Bayern's millions of global supporters.

Bayern Munich has continued their domestic dominance, winning multiple Bundesliga titles since the partnership began and consistently competing for Champions League glory as one of Europe's elite clubs.

Deal Date:Announced on January 12, 2024.

18. Borussia Dortmund (Bundesliga) - Coinbase

Borussia Dortmund has amplified the visibility of cryptocurrency in the Bundesliga through a new partnership with Coinbase, one of the world's largest crypto exchanges. This strategic deal underscores Dortmund's innovative commercial approach and introduces the crypto giant to Germany's top-flight football league.

Coinbase selected Dortmund for their passionate fanbase, modern approach, and commitment to developing young talent. The partnership includes educational initiatives about cryptocurrency alongside traditional sponsorship activation.

Dortmund has remained competitive in the Bundesliga and Champions League, consistently challenging Bayern Munich domestically while developing some of football's brightest young stars throughout this partnership.

Deal Date:Partnership renewal and expansion to Premium Partner was announced on January 21, 2023 (the initial partnership started in July 2022).

19. RB Leipzig (Bundesliga) - Kraken

As part of a major European market push, the cryptocurrency exchange Kraken has secured a sleeve sponsorship deal with RB Leipzig. This agreement introduces a new level of crypto visibility to the Bundesliga and is a key component of Kraken's strategy to partner with competitive clubs across the continent's top leagues.

The deal positions Kraken's branding during Leipzig's Bundesliga matches and Champions League appearances. Leipzig's reputation for developing young talent and playing competitive football made them attractive to Kraken's partnership team.

Leipzig has consistently competed for Bundesliga titles and European qualification, maintaining their position as one of Germany's top clubs throughout this partnership despite being a relatively young organization.

Deal Date:July 2023.

20. AC Milan (Serie A) - Bitpanda

AC Milan has further diversified its commercial strategy for the digital age by signing on Bitpanda as an official cryptocurrency partner. The deal with the Austrian exchange adds another major fintech name to the Rossoneri's growing list of forward-thinking sponsorships.

Bitpanda leverages Milan's historic brand and passionate fanbase to expand throughout Southern Europe. The partnership includes fan engagement initiatives and digital content collaborations celebrating Milan's legendary heritage.

AC Milan won the Serie A title in 2021/22; their first Scudetto in 11 years, marking a renaissance for the historic club that has continued competing at the highest levels of Italian and European football.

Deal Date:The partnership began in August 2024.

21. Inter Milan (Serie A) - Gate.io

Gate.io, an emerging giant in sports sponsorship, has entered into a major agreement with Inter Milan. The cryptocurrency exchange's commitment to the sector is clear: this deal contributes to the over $53 million the company invested in sports partnerships during its inaugural year.

The Gate.io deal provides Inter with substantial commercial revenue while giving the exchange visibility during Serie A and Champions League matches. Inter's global fanbase and competitive success made them attractive to Gate.io's expansion strategy.

Since this partnership began, Inter Milan has competed for Serie A titles and maintained their position at the summit of Italian football, building on their 2020/21 championship success.

Deal Date:Announced on August 24, 2024.

22. Juventus (Serie A) - Socios.com

Juventus was one of the earliest adopters of blockchain fan engagement, partnering with Socios.com to launch $JUV fan tokens. The Italian giants recognized the potential of tokenized fan experiences to deepen connections with their international supporter base.

The partnership allows Juventus fans to vote on club decisions, access exclusive content, and participate in unique experiences. Token holders have influenced decisions ranging from goal celebration songs to NFT artwork designs.

Juventus has continued competing for Serie A titles while pioneering new digital engagement models that other clubs have subsequently adopted, maintaining their status as one of Italy's biggest clubs.

Deal Date:The $JUV Fan Token was first launched on Socios.com in December 2019, making it one of the earliest major football crypto deals.

23. SSC Napoli (Serie A) - Floki

Napoli partnered with Floki (FLOKI cryptocurrency) for shirt sponsorship visibility. The deal brings the meme coin significant exposure through one of Italy's most passionate fanbases and successful recent teams.

Floki's investment in Napoli demonstrates the cryptocurrency's strategy of building legitimacy through high-profile sports partnerships. Napoli's attacking football and enthusiastic supporters provide ideal visibility for the crypto project.

Deal Date:November 2022.

24. Lazio (Serie A) - Binance

Lazio partnered with Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, in a deal that brings massive crypto visibility to Italian football. Binance's investment reflects their commitment to European sports partnerships.

The Binance partnership provides Lazio with significant commercial revenue while giving the exchange exposure to one of Rome's passionate football clubs. Lazio's competitive Serie A presence makes them valuable for Binance's brand building.

Lazio has remained competitive in Serie A and European competitions, regularly qualifying for continental football and maintaining their position among Italy's traditional elite clubs throughout this partnership.

Deal Date:Announced on October 13, 2021.

25. Galatasaray (Turkish Süper Lig) - Socios.com

In a key strategic move to enhance supporter engagement, Galatasaray teamed up with Socios.com to introduce the $GAL Fan Token. The Istanbul club is leveraging the potential of blockchain to build closer digital ties with its passionate Turkish base and its extensive global following.

The Socios.com partnership allows Galatasaray fans to participate in club polls and access exclusive experiences. The deal reflects Turkish football's embrace of blockchain technology and innovative fan engagement platforms.

Galatasaray has continued competing for Turkish Süper Lig titles and European qualification, maintaining their status as one of Turkey's biggest clubs with their passionate supporters creating incredible atmospheres.

Deal Date:The $GAL Fan Token launched on May 14, 2021.

26. Philadelphia 76ers (NBA) - Crypto.com

To significantly improve their digital fan experience, the Philadelphia 76ers entered a partnership with Crypto.com. The NBA franchise is embracing blockchain technology to better connect with its passionate supporters in Philadelphia while reaching out to a broader international audience of basketball enthusiasts.

Like other NBA-Crypto.com partnerships, the 76ers deal focuses on engagement tools and digital experiences, aligning with U.S. regulatory approaches to cryptocurrency. The partnership includes exclusive content and unique fan experiences, with future plans exploring crypto paymentoptions for tickets and merchandise.

The 76ers have competed consistently in the Eastern Conference playoffs, maintaining their status as championship contenders throughout their Crypto.com partnership with star players leading their competitive efforts.

Deal Date:September 2021.

27. AS Monaco Basket (EuroLeague Basketball) - Zondacrypto

The Polish cryptocurrency exchange zondacrypto became a major partner of AS Monaco Basket in January 2025, marking one of the year's most recent crypto sports sponsorships. Their investment aims to boost the profile of digital assets within the highly competitive European basketball market.

Zondacrypto chose Monaco Basket for their competitive EuroLeague presence and prestigious brand. The partnership demonstrates crypto's expansion beyond football into other major European sports properties.

Monaco Basket competes at the highest level of European basketball in the EuroLeague, representing the principality in continental competition while building a competitive roster for championship contention.

Deal Date:Announced on January 13, 2025.

28. Formula 1 (Global Championship) - Crypto.com

Crypto.com has made a serious, long-term commitment to Formula 1 by securing one of the sport's highest-profile global partnerships. The multi-year deal involves a substantial investment from the crypto platform, ensuring its branding is prominently featured at F1 races across the globe through 2030.

The deal includes title sponsorship of the Miami Grand Prix (Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix) and extensive activation across F1's digital platforms. Crypto.com leverages F1's 1.5 billion television audience and tech-savvy fanbase for massive brand exposure.

F1 has experienced explosive growth in popularity during this partnership, particularly in the United States, creating ideal visibility for Crypto.com's brand expansion efforts across multiple continents.

Deal Dates:The original partnership began in 2021; the extension through 2030 was announced on December 19, 2024.

29. UEFA Champions League - Crypto.com

Crypto.com and the UEFA Champions League have joined forces in a pioneering, multi-year partnership, marking the first time the premier club football competition has aligned with a cryptocurrency platform. The collaboration grants Crypto.com exceptional brand visibility at matches worldwide while aiming to drive fan engagement through innovative digital experiences.

The Champions League partnership gives Crypto.com exposure to hundreds of millions of viewers globally across all UEFA competitions. The deal reinforces Crypto.com's position as the leading crypto brand in sports sponsorship.

The Champions League continues delivering dramatic football moments that captivate global audiences, providing Crypto.com with unmatched visibility during Europe's most prestigious club competition seasons after season.

Deal Date:August 14, 2024.

30. Copa Libertadores (South American Championship) - Crypto.com

Crypto.com partnered with CONMEBOL to sponsor the Copa Libertadores, South America's premier club football competition. The deal brings crypto visibility to one of football's most passionate and historic tournaments.

The Copa Libertadores partnership allows Crypto.com to reach South American markets with enormous football passion. The tournament's dramatic atmosphere and loyal fanbases provide ideal engagement opportunities for crypto adoption.

Copa Libertadores continues delivering incredible football drama across South America, with clubs from Argentina, Brazil, and throughout the continent competing for continental glory and Crypto.com visibility.

Deal Date:Announced on November 25, 2021.

31. UFC (Mixed Martial Arts) - Crypto.com & VeChain

The UFC has embraced the crypto sector not once, but twice, securing two landmark partnerships that cover branding and technology. Crypto.com is the massive, high-visibility partner, plastering its logo across all official fight kits. Meanwhile, VeChain is the specialized, blockchain partner, providing the network for fan engagement, authentication solutions, and even powering the official UFC fighter rankings.

Crypto.com leverages UFC's global audience of fight fans across 175 countries, with branding appearing during pay-per-view events watched by millions. VeChain provides blockchain technology for collectibles and fan experiences.

The UFC has continued growing its global presence, with record-breaking events and expanding international markets providing enormous exposure for both Crypto.com and VeChain throughout their partnerships.

Deal Dates:Crypto.com deal announced in July 2021 (Global Fight Kit Partner); VeChain deal announced in June 2022 (Official Layer 1 Blockchain Partner).

32. McLaren Formula 1 Team - OKX

The McLaren Formula 1 Team is driving deeper into the digital asset world through an expanded partnership with OKX. As a Primary Partner, the global cryptocurrency exchange secures high-impact branding, notably on the side pods of the F1 car for the majority of the season, along with placement on driver and team apparel. This alliance firmly embeds a leading Web3 company within the elite world of motorsport.

OKX chose McLaren for their competitive spirit, technical innovation alignment, and passionate fanbase. The deal includes digital engagement initiatives connecting crypto enthusiasts with Formula 1 racing excitement.

McLaren has shown strong competitive form in recent seasons, regularly competing for podium finishes and demonstrating their return to competitive prominence in F1 after rebuilding their program.

Deal Date:The expanded Primary Partner deal was announced in May 2022.

33. Red Bull Racing (Formula 1) - Gate.io

Oracle Red Bull Racing cemented its position as a top-tier destination for digital finance by signing a major partnership with cryptocurrency exchange Gate.io. Leveraging the team’s dominant success on the track, the exchange's branding now features prominently on key car and driver assets, ensuring maximum global visibility for the crypto-exchange.

Gate.io's partnership benefits from Red Bull Racing's multiple championship victories and massive global following. The team's innovative approach extends to embracing digital currency partnerships that align with their cutting-edge brand.

Red Bull won the Constructors' Championship in 2022, 2023, and 2024, with Max Verstappen dominating the drivers' championship, creating enormous value for sponsors including Gate.io throughout their dominance.

Deal Date:February 10, 2025

34. Aston Martin F1 Team - Coinbase

Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team and Coinbase have forged a multi-year partnership, uniting the luxury automotive brand with one of the most trusted and regulated cryptocurrency exchanges. This collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to innovation, speed, and precision, with Coinbase leveraging the global F1 platform to amplify its mission of greater economic freedom through cryptocurrenc

Coinbase selected Aston Martin for their premium brand positioning and competitive resurgence. The deal includes prominent branding on cars and team assets throughout the F1 season worldwide.

Aston Martin has improved significantly in recent seasons, challenging for podium positions and demonstrating competitive progress that provides valuable visibility for Coinbase's global brand building efforts.

Deal Date:Announced on February 17, 2025.

35. Williams Racing (Formula 1) - Kraken

The legendary Williams Racing team has partnered with global crypto exchange Kraken, cementing a relationship that provides essential financial and technological backing for the team's long-term rebuild. As the official crypto platform, Kraken's logo features prominently on the car, fueling Williams' push for a return to the front of the F1 grid.

Kraken selected Williams for their racing heritage, historic success, and potential for future growth. The partnership includes prominent car and team wear branding throughout the F1 season across all races.

Williams has worked to improve their competitive position in Formula 1, showing progress in recent seasons as they aim to return toward their championship-winning form with investment and development.

Deal Date:A precise deal date is not publicly listed, but the multi-year partnership was announced in 2023.

What These Partnerships Mean For Fan Engagement

How Cryptocurrency Is Changing Fan Interaction

Cryptocurrency sponsorships are reshaping how fans connect with their favorite teams. One of the biggest innovations is the rise of fan tokens, which give supporters a say in certain club decisions and make them feel more involved.

Fan Tokens And Direct Participation

Through platforms like Socios.com, token holders can vote on things such as kit designs, goal celebration songs, NFT artwork, and other club activities. While these votes usually involve small matters, they build a direct bridge between clubs and fans across the world.

Barcelona’s $BAR token holders have joined dozens of polls that influence club operations, while Juventus’s $JUV token community helps shape fan experiences. These systems turn ordinary fans into active participants with a real digital connection to their clubs.

NFTs And Digital Collectibles

NFT collections linked to crypto partnerships have created new opportunities for digital sports collectibles. Teams release limited-edition artwork, highlight videos, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as NFTs. Some early collections have even gone up in value in resale markets.

Exploring The Metaverse

Metaverse experiences are also emerging as a new way to engage fans. Manchester City worked with OKX to create a virtual stadium where supporters around the world can “attend” matches as avatars. Though still in early stages, these projects show what the future of fan interaction might look like.

Payments And Discounts Through Crypto

Crypto partnerships make it easier for fans to make small, direct payments to clubs without traditional banks or payment processors. Supporters can use cryptocurrency to buy tickets, merchandise, or premium content, often through top cryptocurrency wallets, and sometimes enjoy discounts for being token holders.

Valuable Fan Data And Insights

The digital tools behind these partnerships also generate useful data. Clubs gain detailed insights into their most passionate fans, including spending habits and content preferences. This helps teams improve fan engagement and shape smarter commercial strategies for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Cryptocurrency Company Spends The Most On Sports Sponsorships?

Crypto.com dominates sports sponsorship spending with approximately $213 million invested in the 2024/25 season. Their portfolio includes the UEFA Champions League, Formula 1, Copa Libertadores, UFC, and various team deals.

Are Crypto Sports Sponsorships Safe For Teams Given Market Volatility?

Crypto sponsorships carry risks, particularly payment security concerns if sponsors face financial difficulties. However, teams have improved due diligence processes, demanding upfront payments, escrow arrangements, and financial guarantees from crypto sponsors.

How Have Crypto Sponsorships Affected Team Performance?

No direct correlation exists between crypto sponsorships and on-field performance. However, several teams achieved significant success during their crypto partnerships.

Will Crypto Sponsorships In Sports Continue Growing?

Industry forecasts suggest continued growth for crypto sports sponsorships, particularly as regulatory clarity improves and major exchanges demonstrate financial stability. Growth will likely be more sustainable than the explosive 2021 peak, with established exchanges making long-term commitments rather than speculative newcomers chasing hype.

Which Sports Have The Most Crypto Sponsorships?

Football dominates crypto sponsorships, accounting for 59% of all new partnerships in 2024/25. Formula 1 ranks second at 28% of crypto sponsorship spending.

Conclusion

The large number of sponsorship deals shows that crypto logos have become a regular part of the sports world. They give teams financial support and help crypto companies gain wider public trust.

However, the long-term success of these partnerships depends on what happens next. With regulators paying close attention and technology constantly changing, the future will require openness, clear communication with fans, and responsible innovation.

If teams and their crypto partners stay focused on these values, the partnerships could do much more than just bring in money. They could completely change the way fans connect with their clubs and how sports teams build lasting financial stability.