In a strategic play that is bound to ignite the trading card market, Fanatics/Topps recently broadcasted their sports cards’ production strategy at an industry conference in Atlanta. The game plan involves retaining the momentum in sports card manufacturing as they inch closer towards acquiring NBA rights in a year and NFL rights in two years, making cards for sports categories like basketball, football, UFC, soccer, and F1 more diverse and dynamic.
The highlight of this sporty extravaganza is the comeback of Topps Chrome to the basketball court, expected to hit the deck this summer. This marks its return after an absence since the 2009-10 season, causing a stir among the fanatics with the circulation of an autographed card from NBA rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. Swerving deeper into the court, the firm has struck exclusive contracts with top talents such as the prodigious Wembanyama, LeBron James (who recently parted ways with Upper Deck), basketball giants Shaquille O’Neal, and Kevin Durant. Upcoming basketball delights comprise the Midnight Cosmic, Chrome Finest, Motif (luxury release), Royalty Collection, Collegiate Chrome, and Bowman U Chrome. However, fans might have to do without NBA logos or team nicknames till the official license transfer from Panini America next year.
In the football camp, Topps is kicking up a storm with their card offerings primarily around college themes, with the NFL license commencing only in 2026. The upcoming football treats include Motif, Composite (akin to Panini’s Chronicles series), Collegiate Chrome, Collegiate Royalty, Bowman U Chrome, and Bowman U Best. These are anticipated to be on the field in the third quarter of 2024.
The soccer card scene scores a goal with Champions League Dynasty product introduction, replete with all on-card autographs and match-worn gear. Added to the roster will be a Women’s Champions League product with patch autographs. Fanatics/Topps is launching “The Grail” inserts across six different soccer products, the grand prize being an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2024-25 Champions League Final. Additionally, unique 1/1 MLS Debut Patches will add charm to the Renaissance, Finest, and Chrome collections.
Fanatics/Topps have added the UFC license to their portfolio, reintroducing the Finest series and adding several premium products including Royal, UFC Midnight, Knockout, and Gold Label.
The F1 circuit will hear the roar of new offerings from Fanatics/Topps, who plan to expand the lineup with Paddock Pass (comparable to the Stadium Club series but with chrome cards) and other launches such as Topps Chrome Finest and Dynasty, including booklet cards and Michael Schumacher cut signatures.
Through this extensive and impressive lineup, Fanatics/Topps underscores its commitment to amplify its reach and boost the sports card collecting experience. With a rich buffet of multiverse card releases, the future shines bright for collectors, making us wait with bated breath for what they’ll spark next in the trading card cosmos.
