The sports card world is undergoing a seismic shift. Fanatics is on the rise, while Panini faces an uncertain future as licensing deals shift and legal battles ensue
Here Are the Current Sports Card Licensing Agreements
MLB – Currently: Topps (owned by Fanatics) holds the exclusive license.
NBA – Currently: Panini holds the license.
Future: Fanatics is set to acquire the license in 2026
NFL – Currently: Panini holds the license.
Future: Fanatics is set to acquire the license, but the situation is currently in legal dispute.
Key Points:
Fanatics Dominance – Fanatics is aiming to become the dominant force in the sports card market, having acquired Topps and secured long-term deals for major leagues.
Panini’s Challenges – Panini faces significant challenges as its key licenses are expiring and Fanatics seeks to take over.
Legal Battles – The dispute between Panini and Fanatics over NFL licensing highlights the complexities and potential for legal challenges in this industry.
Disclaimer – This information is based on current news and may be subject to change.
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The sports card industry involves licensing agreements between card manufacturers and various sports leagues and player associations. Here’s a breakdown of key licensing aspects:
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Who needs licenses?
- Card Manufacturers: Companies that produce and distribute sports cards need licenses to use:
- Team Logos and Names: Each major league (MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL) holds trademarks on team logos, names, and uniforms.
- Player Likenesses: The players’ associations (MLBPA, NBPA, NFLPA, NHLPA) represent the players’ rights to their images and names.
- Card Manufacturers: Companies that produce and distribute sports cards need licenses to use:
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Types of Licenses:
- Exclusive Licenses: Granted to a single manufacturer for a specific sport or league. This creates a monopoly, but can also lead to higher quality control and innovation.
- Non-Exclusive Licenses: Allow multiple manufacturers to produce cards, potentially leading to greater variety but also increased competition.
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Recent Changes:
- Fanatics’ Acquisition of Topps: This has significantly altered the landscape, with Fanatics now holding exclusive MLB licenses.
- Panini’s License Expirations: Panini’s licenses for NBA and NFL cards are expiring, leading to uncertainty and potential changes in the market.
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Key Considerations:
- Licensing Fees: Manufacturers pay substantial fees to leagues and players’ associations for the right to use their intellectual property.
- Contract Terms: Licenses typically have specific terms and conditions, including restrictions on card design, production methods, and distribution channels.
- Legal Disputes: Disputes can arise over licensing agreements, such as trademark infringement or contract breaches.
Where to Find More Information:
- League Websites: Official websites for major sports leagues often have information about licensing and intellectual property rights.
- Players’ Association Websites: Websites for players’ associations may also provide information about licensing and player rights.
- Industry Publications: Sports card industry publications and websites often cover licensing news and developments.