Fanatics, the sports collectibles powerhouse, is set to shake up the Premier League’s card and sticker game starting in the 2025/26 season. The move marks a significant transition in the sports collectibles industry as Fanatics reclaims the licensing rights to produce trading cards and stickers for the prestigious Premier League. This shift follows a five-year tenure by Panini, who will continue its operations until May 2025.
The acquisition by Fanatics adds another feather to its cap, which already boasts rights to numerous renowned sports leagues and events such as the NBA, NFL, UFC, and Formula 1. With the recent purchase of the iconic Topps brand in January 2022, Fanatics has been steadily expanding its presence in the collectibles market. The foray into the Premier League domain is expected to elevate Fanatics’ status even further, particularly amplifying its influence in the European market.
Renowned for being the home to six of the world’s top ten most valuable soccer clubs, the Premier League boasts a massive global fanbase. This collaboration with Fanatics is poised to capitalize on this widespread appeal and engage fans on a deeper level through innovative and high-quality collectibles. Premier League Chief Commercial Officer, Will Brass, lauded Fanatics for its dedication to innovation and its proven track record in enhancing fan engagement through collectibles.
David Leiner, President of Trading Cards at Fanatics Collectibles, revealed the company’s strategic approach to tap into the European market, which has historically been dominated by sticker collecting. Leiner explained that the Premier League was drawn to Fanatics not only for its unique approach to collectibles but also for its player relationship management. Fanatics has established successful partnerships with sports icons like Tom Brady and Ronald Acuna Jr., showcasing their ability to enhance players’ branding in the collectibles space.
Fanatics’ presence in the English football scene extends beyond just collectibles, with existing e-commerce and licensed apparel partnerships with The FA and various Premier League clubs. This new agreement with the Premier League signifies a significant step in Fanatics’ commitment to intertwine itself more deeply within the fabric of English football. The promise of a revamped collectibles landscape hints at an immersive and expansive collecting experience for fans worldwide once the 2025/26 season kicks off.
The upcoming reign of Fanatics in the Premier League collectibles realm is primed to set a new standard in the industry, offering fans an enriched and dynamic experience. With their proven expertise in engaging fans through innovative collectibles and strong athlete partnerships, Fanatics is gearing up to revolutionize how fans connect with their favorite players and clubs through the art of collecting. As the countdown to the 2025/26 season begins, anticipation mounts for the exciting new era that Fanatics is poised to usher in for Premier League enthusiasts.