Buckle up, trading card enthusiasts. Fanatics/Topps is revving up the trading card market, with a string of dynamic releases set to hit the scene soon. As the firm inches closer to landing the coveted NBA licensing rights in a year, and the NFL rights in a couple of years, there’s no slowing down in sight.
The outlines of a diversified release strategy recently unfolded during the Fanatics/Topps Industrial Conference held in Atlanta. With eyes set on expanding and refurbishing their offerings across basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and F1, Fanatics/Topps is undeniably prepping for a sturdy groundwork.
Basketball fans will be elated that Topps Chrome is bouncing back to the court after over a decade. Its return this Summer has already sparked anticipation, particularly with the hype around an autographed card from the NBA rookie sensation, Victor Wembanyama.
Moreover, exclusive autograph contracts from hot shots such as LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant have been secured. However, with the official license transfer from Panini America only commencing next year, Topps will not have the green light for NBA logos or team nicknames just yet.
The football area is ripe with potential and, while the NFL license will only kick into action in 2026, Topps isn’t sitting idle. Their offerings slice towards college themes, with a hearty collection of football releases set to hit the market. Football enthusiasts can look forward to the Composite series, similar to Panini’s Chronicles, and the Bowman U Chrome series, among others. The third quarter of 2024 seems promising for releases!
The soccer card scene isn’t left out either. The introduction of the Champions League Dynasty product will boost the sport’s card market position, and all on-card autographs and match-worn gear will be showcased. Women’s Champions League product will be graced with patch autographs, positioning “The Grail” inserts across six different soccer products as the grand prize: a golden ticket to the 2024-25 Champions League Final!
UFC, now licensed under Topps, will see the reincarnation of the valued Finest series, alongside a host of premium products. Furthermore, the F1 lineup keeps its foot on the gas with the debut of Paddock Pass and more, expanding the offer range even further.
Fanatics/Topps is evidently raising the temperature in the sports card market. With a gutsy lineup of releases across various sports genres and the anticipated return of Topps Chrome to NBA, the company underscores its commitment to spread its wings and enrich the sports card collecting experience. One could say it’s a fantastic leap into a future filled with collector-friendly innovation and significant market engagement. The race is on, and the checkered flag is way out in the horizon. Exciting times indeed!
