Manchester United, one of the oldest soccer clubs globally, has confirmed the partnership with blockchain firm Tezos as the official training kit and technology partner.

The soccer club aims to introduce its fans to the decentralized Web3 tech amid growing focus from mainstream firms and brands. The team would make its first appearance in the new kit on Saturday against Southampton

Man United’s previous sponsorship deal with AON expired last month, and Tezos will be paying 33% on top of the previous agreement at $27 million yearly. Tezos will help the soccer club gain more exposure to Web3 technologies and might play a key role in launching various digital fan merchandise and collectibles soon.

A majority of global sports brands are experimenting with blockchain and Web3 centered tech and new ways for connecting sports clubs to fans. Man United aims to build a fan ecosystem expected to be based on the concept of metaverse on Tezos blockchain, to offer personalized experiences to the fans and the platform would use the native token of the Tezos.

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Victoria Timpson, Manchester United’s CEO of Alliances and Partnerships, said:

“This is a hugely exciting partnership for Manchester United because it aligns us with one of the most advanced, reliable and sustainable blockchains in an area of technology which promises to truly revolutionise the way that everyone, including the Club and our fans, can interact.”

Tezos, a proof of stake (PoS) blockchain, has joined the growing list of blockchain firms entering mainstream sponsorship deals. Earlier, Tezos has signed sponsorship deals with Formula 1’s McLaren Racing and Major League Baseball’s New York Mets.