Manchester City Football Club is pioneering a fresh approach to fan interaction. They’ve joined forces with Quidd, an Animoca Brands subsidiary. This collaboration will bring forth a line of digital collectibles. Each piece will offer holders unique real-world perks.
Among these, fans can obtain seats beside the pitch during exclusive training sessions. This initiative marks a significant shift. It modernizes the classic hobby of collecting sports cards. This was revealed by Tom Boyle, the Vice-President of Global Partnerships Marketing and Operations at City Football Group. According to him, this move will enhance the club’s global fan connection. Furthermore, it injects a digital twist into traditional collectible cards.
Digital Rewards and Real World Experiences by Manchester City
The partnership’s first offering will be 200 custom digital player cards. They are set to debut on May 2. The first 10,000 fans, commonly known as “Cityzens,” to buy these packs will receive an extra treat. They’ll get two special “For the Fans” packs. Additionally, these digital acquisitions will unlock opportunities to buy official merchandise. They can further win hospitality tickets.
Moreover, some lucky fans of Manchester City will gain access to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. One such perk is watching a live training session at the City Football Academy. This initiative follows the club’s recent ventures into the NFT domain. On April 22, they launched the “Unseen City Shirts” NFT collection. This limited edition ties digital art to physical jerseys.
Last year Manchester City collaborated with Sony. The aim was to create a virtual replica of their iconic Etihad Stadium. It’s reportedly the first officially-licensed football stadium in the metaverse.
Broader Horizons in Football and Crypto
Meanwhile, other football clubs are also exploring digital currencies. For instance, the Winklevoss twins recently invested in Real Bedford Football Club. They contributed $4.5 million towards the club’s Bitcoin treasury. Their support showcases a strong belief in the club’s potential. It also reflects optimism about Bitcoin’s role in the club’s future ambitions.
Overall, Manchester City’s initiative with Quidd represents a significant blend of sports, technology, and fan engagement. It sets a new benchmark in how clubs interact with their supporters in the digital age.
