U.K. venture builder, Podium Ventures, has announced its appointment as the exclusive worldwide agent to develop the global brand of soccer player, Diego Armando Maradona.  

Led by Maradona’s sisters, Lili and Rita Maradona, and Sattvica S.A. – the commercial entity controlling the worldwide rights to Maradona’s brand name, image and likeness – the partnership will see Podium Ventures lead on commercial development as part of a broader vision for growing the Maradona brand globally, with a particular focus on Web3, the gaming sector and the metaverse.  

“Maradona is undoubtedly one of the greatest footballers of all time, so it is a real honor to be able to announce details of our exclusive partnership,” says Sanjay Wadhwani, chief executive officer and founder, Podium Ventures. “Podium Ventures is a venture builder, and we will be working to develop and grow the Maradona brand on a global scale, starting with launching the fan club and the first-ever official Maradona NFT collection next week. As a massive fan of the footballing legend, I am incredibly excited to be given the opportunity to bring back Maradona, celebrating his legacy with his loyal fan base, as well as introducing him to the millions of younger fans who never got to see him play. We have huge ambitions to where we want to take the brand, so watch this space. The potential reach of brand Maradona is huge, and I am excited about the opportunities we will create in gaming, esports, merchandising and media as well as emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality and Web3. Podium Ventures is determined to open the door to a brand-new era of fandom!”  

MetaFrames – a Web3 media company established in 2020 by Podium Ventures – will be launching the Official Maradona Fan Club as part of plans to take the icon into the metaverse on July 22. In addition to bolstering Maradona’s legacy, the move signals a new opportunity for his global fan base to be able to reconnect with the sporting star and enjoy several benefits as members of the official fan club.  

“We look forward to working with Sanjay, Podium Ventures and MetaFrames in honoring the great Diego Maradona and preserving his legacy in accordance with his wishes,” says Matias Morla, chief executive officer, Sattvica. “We have many exciting initiatives for the Official Maradona Fan Club and fans of Maradona around the world.”