FIFA swaps Panini for new company to produce 2026 World Cup album By Janderson Luiz
3 min read
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Fifa ended a partnership lasting more than six decades with Panini and chose a new company to produce the Copa sticker album for Mundo 2026. The change marks the end of a tradition that has accompanied fans since 1970, when the Italian publisher began publishing official tournament collections.
The decision represents a significant disruption in the global football merchandising market. Desde to Copa from México from 1970, Panini dominated the global production of sticker albums, consolidating itself as a cultural symbol of international competitions. The Italian company still has contracts with other confederations, but has lost exclusivity with football’s highest entity.
Detalhes from transition to 2026
The identity of the new responsible company was not disclosed in the official information available at the time of the decision. The selection process involved analysis of proposals and production capacity to meet the global demand expected for the North American tournament.
The change directly affects the collecting market, which moves billions of dollars during Copa and Mundo periods. Estima’s 2022 album has sold millions of units in more than 100 countries. The new company will face high expectations to maintain the quality of printing, distribution and design of the stickers.
Procedimentos operational include:
- Supply Chains for Printing and Distribution Revisão
- Adequação to 18-month timeline before Copa
- Desenvolvimento of exclusive and modern designs
- Parcerias with global retailers and distributors
- Conformidade with Fifa copyright regulations
Impacto on the release calendar
Normalmente, albums and stickers are released between three and six months before the competition. Para 2026, the schedule follows a similar pattern, allowing production to ramp-up as the tournament date approaches.
Colecionadores and retailers will face learning about new suppliers and distribution processes. Lojas of convenience stores, supermarkets and global e-commerce platforms are already receiving communications about the transition.
Legado of Panini in Copas of Mundo
Panini’s trajectory began in 1970 at México with 240 stickers. Desde therefore, each edition expanded in quantity of stickers, graphic quality and technological innovations. Copa 2022 in Catar totaled 680 different stickers.
The company has won generations of fans through memorable albums. Special Edições, rare and limited edition figurines created a robust secondary market. Alguns old albums fetch high prices at collectors’ auctions.
Historicamente, Panini followed the evolution of football and technology. Incorporou hoograms, special effects and premium edits on recent albums. The contract with Fifa allowed global exclusivity that other publishers were unable to achieve.
Perspectivas commercial and collectors market
The trading card industry generates estimates of 500 million to 1 billion dollars during the Copa of Mundo years. Fabricantes bets in massive volume during tournament months.
Novo producer will need to demonstrate production capacity, international logistics and visual innovation. Fifa evaluated criteria of sustainability, quality and global reach in the selection.
Old Torcedores show attachment to the Panini brand, while new supplier tries to win over audience with updated proposals. Mercado collector awaits release of first images and design of the 2026 stickers.
Distribuidores regional offices on five continents need to align contracts and sales structures with a new partner. Mudança operational requires complex coordination between Fifa, manufacturer, distributors and retailers before January 2026.
