Fanatics, a global digital sports platform, has acquired Topps trading cards, a preeminent licensed trading card brand a portfolio company of Tornante Company.
The deal includes all parts of the trading cards and collectibles business across both physical and digital divisions. The addition of Topps brings the rights to Major League Soccer, Formula 1, UEFA and Bundesliga and the immediate use of Topps’ baseball licensing. The combination adds to Fanatics’ existing rights of MLB MLBPA, which initially was set to begin in 2026; NBA, NBAPA and NFLPA.
Going forward, Fanatic’s data-driven, D2C expertise will enhance Topps’ digital capabilities and grow the market for trading card participants. Topps’ experience in delivering quality products and manufacturing capabilities will ensure the future of trading card products.
“With trading cards and collectibles being a significant pillar of our long-term plans to become the leading digital sports platform, we are excited to add a leading trading cards company to build out our business,” said Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin. “Their iconic brand, commitment to product excellence and passionate employees worldwide will allow us to immediately serve our league and players’ association partners and our fans.”
“The strong emotional connection between Topps collectibles and consumers of all ages – built through 70 years of tradition, starting with the Shorin family – will make it a jewel in the Fanatics portfolio,” said Michael Eisner, owner of the Tornante Company. “Michael Rubin is the perfect entrepreneur to lead this company forward. Like any crown jewel, I and my partners at Madison Dearborn will miss our many years of ownership where we grew a highly profitable business through strategic licensing partnerships, global expansion, and digital transformation.