The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has confirmed plans to move its official NFT platform, FIFA Collect, from the Algorand blockchain to a new Ethereum-compatible network called the FIFA Blockchain. The migration, which was officially announced on April 30, 2025, is scheduled to begin no earlier than May 20.

FIFA stated that this move is intended to improve scalability, enhance user access through widely used crypto wallets, and allow the introduction of new web3 features. The decision also aligns FIFA Collect more closely with the Ethereum ecosystem, which remains a central platform for decentralized applications and digital assets.

FIFA Collect Migrating from Algorand Blockchain

FIFA Collect

The FIFA Blockchain is designed to be compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which will enable users to interact with FIFA Collect using popular digital wallets such as MetaMask and others that support WalletConnect. FIFA believes this upgrade will result in better integration across the web3 space and simplify access for users who are already familiar with Ethereum-based tools. With this compatibility, the organization expects to create a more efficient and accessible digital environment for NFT collectors and football fans engaging with its platform.

FIFA Collect Migrating from Algorand Blockchain

FIFA NFTs and Algorand Wallets

According to FIFA, the migration will be automatic for users who currently hold NFTs within the platform’s custodial wallet. These assets will be transferred to the FIFA Blockchain without any action required by the user. However, users who previously exported their FIFA NFTs to external Algorand-based wallets such as Pera or Defly must re-import their NFTs into FIFA Collect before the migration date to ensure they are included in the transfer.

FIFA has reactivated its import tools for a limited time to allow these users to complete the process. If users fail to re-import their assets by the deadline, they will need to contact customer support for assistance in retrieving their collectibles after the migration has taken place. Once the migration is complete, Algorand wallets will no longer be supported on the FIFA Collect platform, and users will need to access their assets through EVM-compatible wallets.

FIFA Collect Migrating from Algorand Blockchain

Changes to USDC Usage and Marketplace Listings

FIFA has also addressed the impact of the migration on USDC balances held by users. Prior to the migration, users will still be able to spend USDC on the platform. After the transition to the FIFA Blockchain, however, spending USDC will no longer be supported. Withdrawals of existing balances will still be allowed, ensuring users retain access to their funds.

For NFTs listed on the marketplace, FIFA confirmed that current sale listings will automatically carry over to the new platform unless users choose to manually delist them in advance. The organization emphasized that there will be no charges associated with the migration, and users will not incur any fees during the transfer process.

Temporary Platform Downtime During the Migration

To complete the migration process, FIFA Collect will undergo temporary downtime lasting approximately 12 hours. FIFA has indicated that users will be notified in advance with specific dates and times. The organization advises users to plan ahead and complete any important transactions before the platform becomes temporarily unavailable. This short disruption is intended to facilitate a smooth and secure transition to the new blockchain infrastructure.

FIFA Collect Migrating from Algorand Blockchain

Migration as Part of FIFA Web3 Strategy

This transition represents a continuation of FIFA’s larger web3 strategy, which has developed steadily over the past two years. In December 2023, FIFA released a digital collectibles series in collaboration with blockchain company Modex. The collection included 100 limited NFTs tied to the 2023 Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia, with some offering unique benefits such as access to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. In addition to the exclusive series, another 900 collectibles were issued on the Polygon blockchain and sold via the OpenSea marketplace.

During our GAM3 Awards in November 2024, FIFA announced a partnership with Mythical Games to develop a mobile soccer game titled FIFA Rivals. The game will include web3 components such as NFTs and will be free to play. Its pre-release is expected in May 2025, followed by a full release in the summer. The game's developers have projected a significant user base, aiming to replicate the success of Mythical Games’ earlier title, NFL Rivals.