Welcome to the ‘Messiverse’: Footballer Lionel Messi launches NFT collection

In a first, footballing icon Lionel Messi has joined hands with blockchain platform Ethernity to officially launch his “Messiverse” NFT (non-fungible token) collection.

An NFT is a digital asset that represents real-world objects like art, music, in-game items and videos. They are bought and sold online, frequently with cryptocurrency, and they are generally encoded with the same underlying software as many cryptocurrencies.

According to Ethernity, the authenticated Lionel Messi collection will consist of four pieces of art. NFTs can be so valuable that one sold at Christie’s auction house in London for $69 million (£50 million) earlier this year, according to ESPN reports.

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Meanwhile, talking about the collaboration, the little magician said to ESPN, “Art, like football, is eternal. Art is also evolving, and digital art (NFT) is another way to connect with the fans. That’s why I’m happy to be launching my first official NFT thanks to the efforts of BossLogic and Ethernity, who have designed these four series of collections based on their experience and criteria.”

Furthermore, he hoped the fans would like the NFTs as much as he does.

The Barcelona captain is the latest sporting icon to join the NFT wagon, after Muhammad Ali and Pele have already featured in Ethernity collections.

Back in April, Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ quarterback star, Tom Brady has officially entered the NFT bandwagon following the launch of the “Autograph.”  

According to CryptoPotato’s press release, there are four artworks that would be included in the NFT collection.

1. “The King Piece” – This will feature a Messi illustration centred on its chess theme.
2. “Worth the Weight.” – Messi is likened here to Atlas, a titan in Greek mythology who is known for carrying the celestial heavens.  
3. “Man From the Future” – The football icon is pictured to be a futuristic robot. 
4. The last art piece will be announced on August 20 itself.

The Messi Collection will be available beginning August 20, exclusively on the website of the blockchain platform.

Meanwhile, FC Barcelona on Thursday announced in an official statement that Lionel Messi will not renew his contract with the club, owing to “financial and structural obstacles.” So the Argentine is currently a free agent and might be seen donning a brand new jersey in the near future.