Crypto is poised to set a new record for the biggest private round fundraise ever. The France-based fantasy soccer game and non-fungible token (NFT) trading platform Sorare has reportedly completed a $532 million funding round at a $3.8 billion valuation.
This round would add to an already lucrative 2021 for crypto startups, which has seen the top 6 funding rounds this year collectively raise more than $1.9 billion. An NFT platform setting a new record in this climate would also counter the narrative that the vertical is losing steam after a white-hot winter.
The round is reportedly led by Japanese telecommunications company SoftBank with participation from London-based venture capital firm Atomico, according to anonymous sources who spoke with Business Insider. European investment firm Eurazeo and venture capital company Blisce are also potentially involved.
The rumored fundraising would follow a $50 million series A round in Feb, which was led by venture capital firm Benchmark with participation from venture capital firm Accel Partners and soccer legends themselves including Barcelona forward Antoine Griezmann and Rio Ferdinand, the former captain of Manchester United and the English national team.
Sorare is an ethereum-based fantasy soccer game where players trade and manage a virtual team with digital player cards in the form of NFTs. In addition to gaming applications, the digital player cards are officially licensed collectibles featuring superstar soccer players like Alphonso Davies or Mark McKenzie. Since its founding in 2018, Sorare has partnered with 142 soccer clubs including Real Madrid S.F., Liverpool F.C., and Sporting Clube de Portugal, to issue new player cards.
Fantasy sports and traditional betting have become twin titans in the modern football landscape, both fueled by the thrill of prediction and the passion of fans. While one simulates management behind a screen, the other remains deeply rooted in the visceral drama of real-time play. Matchday is no longer just for spectators—it’s a strategist’s playground.
From analyzing a team’s recent form to factoring in injuries or even the pitch conditions after a rainstorm, today’s punters bring a level of preparation once reserved for coaches. It’s no longer just about who’s playing—it’s about who’s ready to shine. That’s why seasoned bettors know the value of keeping tabs on standout performers. For instance, pinpointing the Columbus Crew best player during the MLS season can make the difference between a hopeful punt and a savvy prediction.
As digital tools and real-world events become more intertwined, fans find themselves more immersed than ever, turning every pass, tackle, and goal into part of a grander tactical puzzle.
In the past 30 days alone Sorare has facilitated 43,933 sales with a total value of over $9 million, according to data from Nonfungible.com. The top sale over the past 30 days was an Antoine Griezmann unique player card, meaning only one is issued per season, which sold for 50.8 ETH worth $114,916.
