- AFA teams with STEPN on Solana: Digital sneaker NFTs unlock match tickets, signed jerseys for Argentina’s global fanbase.
- Solana-based “Genesis” NFTs celebrate 2022 World Cup win, tied to physical activity rewards via STEPN’s app.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced a partnership with STEPN, a digital platform built on the Solana blockchain that rewards users for physical activity. The collaboration will introduce a limited collection of digital sneakers, called “Genesis,” which will be available as non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These tokens will grant owners access to real-world rewards, including signed team jerseys and tickets to matches involving Argentina’s national team.
STEPN x @Argentina 🇦🇷
The world watched them lift the trophy.
Now, we team up with the champions.We’re proud to announce our long-term partnership with the Argentina Football Association, one of the most iconic teams in football history. ⚽️
The current World Champions with… pic.twitter.com/Lxk9W8e8Ye
— STEPN GO (@Stepnofficial) April 30, 2025
The “Genesis” collection is designed to commemorate Argentina’s victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Each digital sneaker will act as a key to unlock rewards, such as exclusive merchandise or event access, with additional perks to be announced later. STEPN’s platform allows users to earn digital rewards by walking or running, a model that aligns with AFA’s goal to promote physical activity among fans.
AFA, founded in 1893, oversees Argentina’s national football leagues and manages the men’s and women’s national teams. The organization has historically partnered with brands to expand its global reach, but this marks its first venture into blockchain-based digital assets.
We are proud to announce our long-term partnership with @Stepnofficial. Inspiring the next generation of athletes! 🔜✨
As part of this collaboration, we will release co-branded Genesis sneakers and unlock exclusive in-person rewards like signed jerseys and match tickets. 🤝… pic.twitter.com/TfWk5hKMp9
— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) April 30, 2025
Leandro Petersen, AFA’s Commercial and Marketing Director, stated that the partnership aims to connect with younger audiences through technology. “Working with STEPN allows us to engage fans in new ways,” he said. “This isn’t just about football—it’s about encouraging healthy habits while celebrating our team’s achievements.”
Yawn Rong, co-founder of STEPN’s parent company, FSL, emphasized the symbolic value of the collaboration. “AFA represents discipline and teamwork, values we share,” he noted. “By merging football culture with blockchain, we’re creating something tangible for fans worldwide.”
NFTs are unique digital items stored on a blockchain, a type of decentralized database. Unlike traditional collectibles, they cannot be replicated or forged. Owners of the “Genesis” sneakers will verify their NFTs through STEPN’s app, which tracks physical activity to unlock rewards. For example, a fan who walks a certain distance might gain early access to ticket sales for an upcoming match.
Context and Implications
AFA’s move follows similar efforts by sports organizations to use blockchain for fan engagement. In 2021, Spain’s La Liga began selling NFTs tied to match highlights. However, AFA’s focus on combining digital assets with real-world incentives sets a distinct precedent.
The partnership will initially target Argentina’s 45 million residents and its global fanbase. STEPN, which has users in over 190 countries, plans to leverage its network to promote the collection.
The “Genesis” sneakers will be released in phases, with the first drop expected before the end of 2024. AFA confirmed that unsold NFTs will be permanently retired to maintain scarcity. The organization also hinted at future drops tied to specific players or historic matches.
