UEFA has signed Topps as its official championship licensing partner for the creation of collectibles, stickers, and trading cards, the company announced on Wednesday.
Topps, which was acquired by Fanatics in January for $500 million, will take Panini’s exclusive place as UEFA’s partner. Fanatics already runs all the “major” UEFA tournament shops.
- The deal will include EURO 2024 and EURO 2028, as well as other prominent events like the Women’s EURO 2025 and Nations League Finals.
- Topps has signed José Mourinho to choose which players make it onto Topps collections
Topps GM of International Sports and Entertainment Mark Catlin called the partnership a “huge step” for the company.
“The European Championship is the biggest and most prestigious football event on a national level in Europe, recognised globally,” he said.
Looming Controversy
In the background of UEFA’s business moves are the legal dealings of the governing body’s former president, Michel Platini. On Nov. 17, Platini filed a criminal complaint in France against FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Nov. 17 accusing him of “peddling influence.”
The case is reportedly about a payment to Platini of $2 million from 2011. Platini and former FIFA president Sepp Blatter will stand trial later this year in Switzerland.
