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The round ball enters a new dimension. Forget simple passes and sliding tackles: FIFA has just taken one step further into the metaverse. On April 30th, the global football organization announced the creation of its own blockchain, simply named “FIFA Blockchain.” A decision that, at first glance, seems purely technical. But behind the lines of code, a whole crypto strategy is taking shape, much bolder than it appears.
In brief
- FIFA abandons Algorand to launch its own Ethereum-compatible crypto blockchain.
- FIFA NFTs will automatically migrate to this new network starting May 20.
- Goal: build an ambitious Web3 ecosystem combining collecting, gaming, and full control.
A Silent Break
The choice to detach from Algorand is not just a simple logistical update. It is a break. A friendly separation, to be sure, but a strategic one. Since the launch of FIFA Collect — its official NFT collection — FIFA had made Algorand its digital playground. A playground it now considers too narrow for its Web3 ambitions.
The turn is clear: welcome to an EVM-compatible blockchain (Ethereum Virtual Machine). In other words, FIFA wants more flexibility, better scalability, and, above all, to join an already well-established ecosystem. Through this change, the organization aims to align with the sector’s dominant standards, where developers, users… and money are.
The migration will start at the earliest on May 20. A detail that suggests things are well prepared, yet not set in stone.
NFT holders will have nothing to do immediately. Collectibles are expected to follow automatically, unless you decide to remove them before the major switch. Algorand wallets like Pera or Defly? Soon to be archived, as connection will now be via MetaMask and WalletConnect.
More than a Blockchain: A Clear Crypto Ambition
Behind this new infrastructure lies a clear intent: to capture the attention of a young, tech-friendly, and global audience.
FIFA doesn’t just want to sell digital cards. It wants to build a true crypto ecosystem where fans and players become active participants.
2024 has been the year of announcements. After NFTs, gaming takes center stage with FIFA Rivals, a mobile game co-developed with Mythical Games.
The concept is simple but effective: create your club, compete against other players, all within a 100% blockchain universe. The beta version is expected by May 2025, with a full launch planned for summer. The bet? Attract more than 100 million players. A colossal number, but not unrealistic when you know the weight of the FIFA brand.
This shift to a proprietary blockchain also marks a desire for control. By creating its own network, FIFA no longer depends on a third party. It becomes referee and player. It can dictate the rules of the game, set transaction fees, decide technological partnerships. In short, it becomes a fully-fledged crypto entity.
By opting for an Ethereum-compatible blockchain, FIFA does more than change technology: it chooses a side. That of a decentralized, fluid web, driven by a booming digital economy. No more experimental hesitations: enter a assumed, integrated, offensive crypto strategy.
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Fascinated by Bitcoin since 2017, Evariste has continuously researched the subject. While his initial interest was in trading, he now actively seeks to understand all advances centered on cryptocurrencies. As an editor, he strives to consistently deliver high-quality work that reflects the state of the sector as a whole.
DISCLAIMER
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author, and should not be taken as investment advice. Do your own research before taking any investment decisions.
