FIFA is making a strategic leap into next-gen blockchain technology by migrating its NFT platform, FIFA Collect, to a custom Layer-1 chain powered by Avalanche. The move marks a departure from earlier partnerships with Algorand and Polygon, and signals FIFA’s intention to centralize and scale its digital collectibles ecosystem on a future-proof, EVM-compatible infrastructure.
Launched in partnership with blockchain firm Modex, the revamped FIFA Collect will offer fans a faster, more accessible NFT experience, allowing them to trade officially licensed digital soccer highlights using popular wallets like MetaMask via WalletConnect.
“This move enhances our ability to deliver immersive fan experiences,” said Francesco Abbate, CEO of Modex and FIFA Collect.
“The speed, scalability, and compatibility of Avalanche match our long-term vision.”
The transition is already underway as FIFA phases out support for Algorand-based wallets, focusing on broader wallet and dApp integration via AvaCloud, Avalanche’s enterprise infrastructure platform.
Migration Begins as FIFA Bets on Avalanche Ecosystem
FIFA’s shift to Avalanche officially began this week, following its announcement last month to overhaul its underlying digital asset architecture. The new blockchain, powered by AvaCloud, offers full Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility—unlocking broader ecosystem access, simplified onboarding, and support for decentralized wallet connectivity.
Fans using the platform will now access FIFA Collect through EVM wallets like MetaMask, eliminating the need for earlier Algorand-native apps such as Pera and Defly.
“We’re proud to lay the groundwork for a new era of digital football,” Abbate added.
“This technology aligned best with our technical and experiential goals.”
The FIFA Collect platform first debuted during the 2023 Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia, enabling users to buy, sell, and own NFTs tied to official football moments.
FIFA Eyes Broader Web3 Expansion Beyond NFTs
While the current focus is on the FIFA Collect migration, the organization hinted at more Web3 use cases in development. Though specifics remain under wraps, the move suggests FIFA is preparing to expand its digital footprint into areas like fan engagement, interactive gaming, and event-based token experiences.
The transition also reflects a broader shift in strategy among global brands, who are abandoning multichain approaches in favor of unified, scalable ecosystems. Avalanche’s growing reputation for high throughput, low costs, and enterprise-grade infrastructure made it a natural fit.
Quick Facts
- FIFA is migrating its NFT platform to a custom Avalanche chain.
- The new chain supports EVM wallets like MetaMask via WalletConnect.
- Algorand and Polygon support is being phased out.
- The move aligns with FIFA’s broader Web3 expansion plans.
- FIFA Collect launched during the 2023 Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia.
