Overview
- Barcelona announced a three-year partnership with Zero-Knowledge Proof on November 14, naming the Samoa-registered startup its official blockchain technology partner despite the firm disclosing no leadership or ownership.
- Zero-Knowledge Proof introduced its own cryptocurrency on November 24, raising concerns that fans could be drawn to a speculative asset associated with the club’s sponsor.
- Barcelona said on November 26 that it has no connection whatsoever to ZKP’s token, that the asset was not part of the sponsorship, and that it will provide further transparency on the relationship.
- Decrypt reports the deal is worth about $22 million over three years as the club seeks revenue while carrying roughly €469 million in net debt and significant stadium-related borrowing.
- Former director Xavier Vilajoana questioned the club’s due diligence and highlighted a promotional video by influencer Andrew Tate, with the episode feeding a broader debate over crypto sponsorships in European football.