The stage is set for a fresh and energetic foray into the domain of sports card releases, courtesy of Fanatics/Topps. In the countdown to capturing the NBA license in one year and NFL rights in two, one might expect the company to tread lightly. Quite the contrary, this trailblazing firm fuels the flame of anticipation with an array of forthcoming card releases.
Revealed during their recent Industry Conference in Atlanta, Fanatics/Topps intends to revamp their product line across basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and F1, setting a high-frequency tempo for the trading card industry.
Basketball fans can mark their calendars for the triumphant return of Topps Chrome this summer, its first appearance since the 2009-10 season. This reintroduction has already sparked fervor, punctuated by a promotional tease of an autographed card from NBA’s rising star, Victor Wembanyama.
Strategic autograph agreements, masterfully negotiated with illustrious personalities like Wembanyama, LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant, add a captivating twist. While fans will be champing at the bit for these sought-after cards, they must wait patiently until next year when Topps officially receives the NBA license currently held by Panini America.
Topps is not passing the football either, it’s weaving a wider web of allure with increased card offerings centered on college themes. Optimal timing, considering the NFL license commences in 2026 — a strategic touch. Card enthusiasts can look forward to unique releases set for a third-quarter-of-2024 touchdown.
The soccer field undergoes an exciting overhaul with an entrée of Champions League Dynasty cards, showcasing all on-card autographs and match-worn gear. Topps kicks up the stakes with the introduction of “The Grail” inserts, offering a grand prize of an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2024-25 Champions League Final.
Adding to the adrenaline rush, Topps now claims the UFC license and is setting its sights on the reintroduction of the Finest series along with the introduction of several premium products. There’s no tap out when you’re on top.
The F1 lineup rushes ahead with innovative additions, putting a new spin on the collecting experience. As Fanatics/Topps powers on full throttle, collectors can anticipate a vibrant roulette of sports cards sure to stimulate their hobbyist appetite.
In essence, this ambitious lineup reinforces the company’s determination to bolster trading cards collection experiences and broaden its reach. It’s a vibrant canvas depicting Fanatics/Topps’ buoyant strides towards enhancing the landscape of sports card collecting. And collectors, rev up your giddy anticipation; it’s about to be a thrilling ride.
