Atlético de Madrid and STEPN Partner in New NFT Sneaker Collection

Spanish football club Atlético de Madrid announced this week that it will be forming a partnership with Web3 lifestyle app STEPN to develop a new NFT collection of sneakers:

These NFTs are Made for Runnin’

STEPN and Atlético de Madrid FC will collaborate with the WhaleFin exchange to release more than 1,000 pairs of digital football boots/sneakers, all compatible with STEPN’s run-to-earn app.

Those acquiring the footwear will receive exclusive access to physical Atlético de Madrid merchandise, WhaleFin airdrops, and in-person match tickets.

Over the previous year, STEPN has been prioritising the growth of its Solana-based fitness application, which reported healthy Q2 earnings of US$122.5 million. Currently, the NFTs STEPN requires for gameplay trade at a floor price of 1.58 SOL (US$65).

STEPN is now focusing on “creating win-win partnerships for partner brands and also the users through real-world rewards and perks”, according to chief marketing officer Shiti Rastogi Manghani.

Nike NFT Sneakers Already to Market

STEPN is not the only brand to launch an NFT sneaker collection. Nike launched the ‘CryptoKicks’ collection in April this year and the debut of its Ethereum NFT sneakers followed its December 2021 leap into the metaverse via the acquisition of digital art house RTFKT Studios. CryptoKicks can be modified via ‘Skin Vials’ for a unique range of styles and aesthetics.