- FC Barcelona has distanced itself from its cryptocurrency sponsor Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP) following criticism.
- The partnership, announced in November 2025, was supposed to last until 2028 but faced backlash over financial concerns.
- Critics have raised alarms about the lack of transparency and potential risks associated with ZKP’s offerings.
FC Barcelona Distances Itself from Crypto Sponsor Zero Knowledge Proof
In a surprising turn of events, FC Barcelona has publicly distanced itself from its recent partner, the crypto startup Zero Knowledge Proof (ZKP). This decision comes amid growing criticism and concerns over potential financial risks to fans. The original official statement from FC Barcelona reveals their disassociation with ZKP and its newly released digital asset.
Partnership Announcement and Subsequent Criticism
On November 14, 2025, FC Barcelona announced its partnership with ZKP. The deal was slated to run until 2028, allowing ZKP to promote its products through Barcelona’s media channels. Additionally, the agreement included provisions for joint projects that aim to integrate sports, technology, and society. However, this collaboration quickly drew criticism as highlighted by the Financial Times, which cited concerns about the project’s transparency.
Renowned author Martin Calladine expressed deep worries about the lack of information surrounding ZKP. Echoing these sentiments was former FC Barcelona chairman Javier Vilajoana, who described the partnership as a sign of “desperation” amid financial woes within the club’s management.
The Controversial Auction and Club’s Response
Further controversy arose due to an alleged “auction” conducted by ZKP for selling its tokens. Reports suggest that up to 200 million ZKPs are being auctioned daily on their official website. This move attracted more scrutiny towards both the company registered in Samoa and FC Barcelona’s involvement.
Subsequently, FC Barcelona issued another release clearly stating their detachment from both ZKP as a sponsor and its cryptocurrency asset. According to this statement, any financial activities related to the coin were not part of their initial agreement.
The Financial Context and Broader Implications
The backdrop for this distancing is significant: FC Barcelona reportedly faces obligations amounting to $1.45 billion—a record-breaking figure in football history according to press reports like those found in New York Times Athletic analysis. Amidst these challenges, engaging with lesser-known crypto projects can pose additional risks that clubs must navigate carefully.
It is worth noting that FC Barcelona isn’t alone in exploring partnerships with crypto ventures; Floki is an official partner of Nottingham Forest from England’s Premier League (EPL). As such collaborations become more common within sports industries worldwide—balancing innovation against risk remains paramount for clubs engaging in such endeavors.
Ultimately—by severing ties with questionable crypto partnerships like those involving Zero Knowledge Proof—clubs can protect themselves while fostering trust among supporters—a vital step toward ensuring sustainable growth amidst evolving technological landscapes shaping modern sports ecosystems today.
