In a bold move set to reshape the landscape of sports collectibles, Fanatics is positioned to take over the prestigious licensing rights for producing trading cards and stickers for the Premier League starting from the 2025/26 season. The announcement marks a significant pivot in the industry, as the powerhouse brand steps back into the arena it once inhabited.
This strategic acquisition comes on the heels of Fanatics losing the license to Panini, a major player in the collectibles market, who will maintain its partnership with the Premier League until May 2025. Fanatics, known for its savvy business maneuvers, had previously clinched the iconic Topps brand in January 2022, solidifying its presence in the sports collectibles realm.
The conglomerate currently holds licensing rights for a plethora of esteemed sports leagues and events worldwide, including the NBA, NFL, UFC, Formula 1, Bundesliga, and UEFA Club Competitions. With this new deal, Fanatics is poised to elevate its standing in the European market significantly, bridging gaps and expanding its footprint on a global scale.
The Premier League, home to some of the wealthiest and most prestigious soccer clubs globally, boasts a massive fan following across continents. This collaboration with Fanatics is expected to unlock new dimensions of fan engagement, offering enthusiasts a fresh and innovative approach to collecting memorabilia tied to their favorite teams and stars.
Will Brass, the Chief Commercial Officer of the Premier League, expressed eagerness about the partnership, citing Fanatics’ proven track record in driving innovation and fan interaction through collectibles. Brass noted the brand’s commitment to revolutionizing the collectibles space and enhancing the overall experience for supporters of the beautiful game.
David Leiner, the President of Trading Cards at Fanatics Collectibles, shed light on the company’s strategic vision to penetrate the European market and expand the trading card segment, historically dominated by sticker collecting. Leiner emphasized the Premier League’s interest in Fanatics’ unique approach to collectibles and highlighted the brand’s successful player partnerships, including renowned athletes such as Tom Brady and Ronald Acuna Jr.
Furthermore, Fanatics has already solidified its presence in English football through e-commerce and licensed apparel alliances with The FA and various Premier League clubs. The new licensing agreement with the Premier League is set to revolutionize the collectibles landscape, offering fans a more immersive and diverse experience starting in the 2025/26 season.
This exciting development between Fanatics and the Premier League signals a new era of collectibles and fan engagement, underlining the brand’s commitment to innovation and its dedication to enriching the fan experience across the globe. With the promise of fresh designs, enhanced access to stars, and a slew of interactive initiatives, fans can anticipate an exhilarating journey into the world of soccer collectibles come 2025.
