Bulgaria’s oldest football club, Botev Plovdiv FC, has taken a significant step towards cryptocurrency adoption by integrating Bitcoin (BTC) and the Lightning Network into its payment systems, as well as joining the decentralized protocol, Nostr.
This move aims to enhance fan engagement and bring the benefits of digital currencies to the world of sports.
Starting immediately, fans can make peer-to-peer payments using Bitcoin at Botev Plovdiv FC’s fan shops and stands during matches in the top-flight Bulgarian Parva Liga.
The club also has plans to expand Bitcoin payments for ticketing and its online store, making it easier for supporters to interact with the club.
Anton Zingarevich, the club’s president, expressed his excitement about the integration and the potential of the Lightning Network, stating that they envision Bitcoin payments becoming as commonplace as the internet in daily life.
He believes this initiative aligns with the club’s vision and offers unparalleled convenience to fans and stakeholders.
The adoption of Bitcoin was made possible through a partnership with BTCPay Server, a reputable Bitcoin payment processor known for its open-source architecture, secure infrastructure, and low merchant fees.
CryptoDesk.bg, in collaboration with Bitcoinize.com, provided the necessary payment hardware and point-of-sale devices.
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George Manolov, Bitcoin director at Botev Plovdiv FC, emphasized the vast opportunities that Bitcoin offers in terms of technology, social impact, and finance. He expressed enthusiasm for leading innovative initiatives in sports and elevating the club’s stature.
In addition to integrating Bitcoin, the club has revamped its online presence, updating its official website and expanding its English social media channels.
Furthermore, Botev Plovdiv FC has joined Nostr, a decentralized protocol that offers censorship-resistant social media, strengthening its commitment to decentralized technologies.
This move towards Bitcoin and decentralized technologies echoes the pioneering efforts of Real Bedford, a UK-based football club that was the world’s first to adopt Bitcoin.
Peter McCormack, chairman of Real Bedford, commended Botev Plovdiv FC’s decision, emphasizing how Bitcoin adoption can bring success to clubs while raising awareness about the cryptocurrency.
McCormack, who integrated Bitcoin at Real Bedford in 2021, believes that Bitcoin’s unique characteristics act as a “cheat code for life.”
He anticipates more football and sports teams to follow suit and adopt the “cheat code” strategy to build their clubs on solid financial foundations.
To celebrate their cryptocurrency adoption, Botev Plovdiv FC allowed fans attending their home game against Lokomotiv Plovdiv to pay using Bitcoin and the Lightning Network.
This announcement, made on Bitcoin white paper day, further underscores the club’s support for Bitcoin and its commitment to embracing innovation in the world of sports.
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