Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have started to make an impact on all different industries - and the sports world - football, in particular, is no exception. These digital assets have added something extra to the experience, and introduced new ways for clubs, players, and fans to be a part of the sport - and, along with it, football betting. From digital collectables to creating tokenised experiences, NFTs are completely changing the way we are experiencing, making money from and even betting on the sport.

NFTs in Football - A Whole New Era

If you’re unfamiliar with what NFTs are and what they do, they are essentially unique digital assets that are stored on blockchain technology - which ensures ownership authenticity and scarcity. Basically, they are online assets that can’t be copied and that can’t be stolen. If you own one, it’s recorded on the blockchain and, if you sell it, the ownership will then be transferred. They can also be worth a pretty penny!

In football, they’re now starting to be embraced by clubs and leagues - and even by players who are looking to make money and keep their fans engaged and involved.

Digital Collectibles and Trading Cards

One of the most popular ways that NFTs are used in football is as digital collectables. In the old days, fans used to collect and swap cards and stickers - and these days, like everything else, it’s all done online through NFTs. 

There are platforms such as Sorare and Topps that have even started to introduce blockchain-based trading cards that feature top footballers from top leagues. Like real-world collectables, fans can buy, sell, and trade these digital cards - but with provable authenticity and rarity.

Engaging Fans With Exclusive Content 

NFTs also mean that clubs can now offer their top supporters the most exclusive and exciting experiences. Top teams such as Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City have launched their NFT-based memberships - where holders will have special access to special, behind-the-scenes content, they can take advantage of virtual meet-and-greets with players, and even get amazing VIP matchday experiences.

Tokenised Match Tickets

Although not widely done yet, some clubs have even started to explore the idea of using NFTs as a more secure alternative to traditional paper or email match tickets. Having NFT-based ticket will help to ensure its authenticity, reduce potential fraud, and fans will even get to keep it as a cool digital souvenir.

Football Betting and NFTs: A New Frontier

NFTs have also started to be integrated with the world of football betting  - adding a whole new dimension to the whole experience:

Play-to-Earn Fantasy Football Betting

Sites like Sorare let you create your own fantasy football teams using NFT player cards. These teams, like regular fantasy football leagues, compete based on how the real-life players perform - and if you’re one of the more successful managers, you can earn rewards in things like cryptocurrency or new NFT cards. This has completely changed the whole traditional fantasy football experience into a much more investment-based experience.

NFT Betting Markets

Some sports betting sites are even starting to experiment with NFT-based wagers. Instead of placing a traditional bet with fiat currency, you can bet NFTs. What’s more, your winning bets might even be rewarded with rare and expensive NFTs, which you can then trade or sell for a profit.

Tokenized Prize Pools

Some betting operators are also incorporating NFTs into their prize pools. So, when you make winning Champions League bets or Premier League bets for example, instead of getting a regular cash payout, you could end up with things like valuable football NFTs, digital jerseys, or even an exclusive experience like a virtual meet-and-greet with your favourite football players.

The Future of NFTs in Football

Although there are still a lot of people who aren’t yet on board (or even familiar) with the world of NFTs just yet, they’re definitely here to stay in the football world. So, whether you’re a fan who wants to actually own a piece of footballing history or you’re a bettor looking to add even more of a digital experience to your bets, there’s no doubt that NFTs have opened up a whole new era for the beautiful game.