FC Barcelona Issues Strong Denial Regarding Alexia Putellas’ NFT Auction

FC Barcelona has released a robust statement categorically denying that the buyer of a digital artwork (NFT) by Alexia Putellas, valued at 300,000 euros, had a direct connection to the Barça Vision project, as reported by the Ara newspaper under the headline ‘Anomalous Auction of Alexia Putellas’ NFT.’

The club’s clarification on the matter is outlined in five key points:

1. Regular Auction Dynamics:
   • The final increase in the purchase value is a common occurrence in the auction world, where potential buyers wait until the last moment to ensure they can make a definitive offer for the desired piece.
   • An hour before the auction’s close, the last bid was 120 ETHs. Fifteen minutes before closing, the final bid of 160 ETHs was made, sufficient for the last bidder to acquire the artwork, as intended.
2. Misrepresentation of Anonymous User:
   • The mention of “an anonymous user under the alias MoonPayHG” demonstrates journalistic unfamiliarity with the Blockchain world. MoonPay is a common payment method in the sector, comparable to Visa or MasterCard in conventional banking transactions, and it is not a user.
3. Misleading Information on Gold Edition Collection:
   • The article references a Gold Edition collection of the NFT associated with Masterpiece #2 as a link between the buyer and FC Barcelona. The club clarifies that there is no collection called Gold Edition of the NFT, nor any project in this regard in the short or medium term.
4. Determinants of NFT Value:
   • NFT value is determined by criteria such as exclusivity, associated narrative, artistic value, utilities and experiences, and market interest. The Masterpiece #2: Empowerment by digital artist Rhi Madeline, a member of World of Women, came with three associated experiences. The buyer has already enjoyed two, with the third to be delivered when the buyer’s schedule permits.
5. Transparency Efforts by FC Barcelona:
   • The FC Barcelona Communication Department offered to connect Ara with the buyer of Masterpiece #2 to demonstrate transparency. However, the buyer has contacted the club today, stating that despite seeking anonymity, the newspaper published details and altered the sense of their words to imply a non-existent relationship with FC Barcelona.

The club aims to correct inaccuracies and maintain transparency amid the misconceptions surrounding the NFT auction involving Alexia Putellas.