Sources are reporting football star Lionel Messi has come to an agreement for more than $20 million – one of the largest in history – to serve as a brand ambassador for the digital fan token company Socios.com. 

The company describes itself as a “tokenized fan ecosystem” which allows sports fans to buy, trade, and vote on teams through its app.

“We are excited to welcome Lionel Messi as our newest global ambassador,” said Alexandre Dreyfus, CEO and founder of Socios.com.

“He is an icon in world sport and his passion for football combined with his involvement in blockchain technology and the Socios.com platform will ensure that we can create the best experience for our fans.”

Not much is clear about the specific role the football star will play as the new ambassador for Socios.com. It’s rumored at least part of Messi’s payday will include a crypto-backed payment in exchange for his appearances in promotional campaigns for the brand.

lionel messi cryptocurrency hand clap stand

Sports stars flock to endorse crypto companies

Messi is not the first high-profile professional sports player to be involved in a cryptocurrency or blockchain venture. In January, former England captain Michael Owen became an ambassador for British crypto firm Global Crypto Offering Exchange (GCOX). 

NBA star LeBron James is the new ambassador for Crypto.com, and NFL quarterback Tom Brady has gone so far as to buy an equity stake in crypto exchange FTX.com.

Will the lack of regulation slow down celebrity endorsements?

Cryptocurrencies have seen a surge in interest in recent years, with Bitcoin and other digital tokens rising in value sharply. However, there have been concerns about their lack of regulation and the potential for price manipulation.

Despite these concerns, it would seem that more and more high-profile sports stars are getting involved in the blockchain and crypto world. 

Only time will tell if Messi, Brady, and James lending their names and reputations to these businesses will further legitimize them – or not.

Lionel Messi may be the winner in the Socios.com deal

Socios.com is having a PR problem. Allegations of unpaid wages from employees. Will the $20 brand ambassador deal with football star Messi save them from relegation? #crypto #endorsement

What do you think?

Is this a good move for Socios.com? Do you see other celebrities getting involved in the crypto or blockchain worlds?