FIFA Ventures Into Web3 with Avalanche
FIFA is creating its own blockchain infrastructure using Avalanche technology, thus venturing further into the Web3 sector. This partnership is a major evolution in FIFA’s digital strategy. This partnership will help to enhance the way FIFA delivers NFTs and engages virtual fans.
FIFA Blockchain: A Custom Layer-1 on Avalanche
The FIFA Blockchain, a new layer-1 blockchain powered by Avalanche, is a customized platform. It offers high-speed transactions, low latency, and full governance autonomy, all while remaining compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). It simplifies the connection for fans’ decentralized wallets, such as MetaMask, to FIFA-related content.
NFT Marketplace Shift: From Algorand to Avalanche
FIFA will be moving its official NFT marketplace, FIFA Collect, from Algorand to Avalanche. The change will take effect after May 20, following which users will no longer be able to use Algorand-based wallets like Pera or Defly. They will connect through EVM wallets via WalletConnect.
The Vision Behind the Switch
Francesco Abbate, CEO of Modex and FIFA Collect, said that a need for speed, security, scalability, and cost-efficiency drove the decision. Avalanche’s infrastructure ticks all the boxes, providing a solid base for future blockchain-based fan offerings.
Expanding FIFA’s Digital Ecosystem
FIFA’s digital ambitions don’t stop here. The organization is planning to introduce something innovative, along with business use cases, to increase engagement with over five billion fans worldwide, although details are scarce at present.
FIFA is going to explore blockchain gaming in addition to NFTs. EA is joining forces with Mythical Games to launch FIFA Rivals, a mobile soccer game that will be free-to-play on iOS and Android devices.
Conclusion: A Strategic Shift Toward the Future
FIFA’s switch to Avalanche indicates an intention to stay for the long haul. The top football body in the world is using a scalable and customizable blockchain of its own to better connect with fans and future Web3 experiences.
