How PSG Conquered Europe and Web3: From Fan Tokens to Hacking the Future

Paris Saint-Germain didn''t just win on the pitch—they hacked the playbook for sports franchises in the Web3 era.

The Token Play

While traditional clubs chased broadcast deals, PSG minted fan tokens that turned supporters into stakeholders. The $PSG token became the ultimate loyalty program—with more volatility than their Ligue 1 title odds.

Blockchain in the Box

Smart contracts automated player bonuses. NFT collectibles funded youth academies. The Parc des Princes became a living lab for decentralized tech—proving football clubs could be more innovative than your average crypto startup.

The Final Whistle

As other teams counted Champions League prize money, PSG''s Web3 strategy built something more valuable: a blueprint for the future of sports. Though let''s be honest—their crypto revenues still can''t buy them a competent defense.

The importance of being first

Paris Saint Germain raised the bar with their performances this season, but they have consistently been at the forefront of Web3 sports innovation in recent years, with other initiatives including the launch of Concorde –  a free to claim digital pass that rewards loyalty by enabling the club’s global fanbase to collect rare digital drops and digital collectibles ( some of these collectibles will be minted on Chiliz Chain).

It’s an approach that’s aligned with the club’s ‘be first DNA’, as Par Helgosson, Head of PSG Labs, stated during Paris Blockchain Week in 2024.

“PSG like to be first, it’s part of our DNA. Innovation is really part of our game and we want to work with partners who are innovating with us, as we know that we can’t do everything internally.

“Web3 is built on everything we do, it’s not a separate thing. In order to be on time you have got to be early. You have to learn, you have to experiment.”

Setting the right example

While other sports teams have embraced Web3 to differing degrees, PSG have remained steadfast and consistent in their approach, becoming immersed in the sector and actively exploring new opportunities to leverage blockchain tech to benefit the club and its fans. 

And, this summer, the club will open its doors, literally, to more blockchain innovation, as developers from around the world descend on Parc des Princes for Hacking Paris – a $150K Chiliz Chain Hackathon.

Hacking Paris (11th – 13th July) will be the first major hackathon to be held at an elite football stadium. Another blockchain first for the French champions.

The Chiliz Chain hackathon will welcome developers to build new Fan Token utility, digital merchandise, stadium experience, decentralized governance, and fan engagement dApps.

Participation is free and both individuals and teams can participate, with a total prize pool of $150K available. 
You can find out more and register for this first-of-its-kind event here.