Memorabilia Deal with Panini America, Donates 30% to Longhorns Football Program…
In a groundbreaking move that merges collegiate athletics with the collectibles industry, Panini America has entered into an exclusive, multi-year partnership with Arch Manning, the University of Texas quarterback, to offer autographed memorabilia. This collaboration not only marks Manning’s first-ever memorabilia deal but also introduces a charitable component, with 30% of the proceeds benefiting the Longhorns football program.(blog.paniniamerica.net)
Announced on April 16, 2025, this partnership builds upon the existing relationship between Manning and Panini America, which began in 2023 with an exclusive trading card agreement. The new deal expands to include autographed memorabilia items such as photos, helmets, and jerseys, with prices ranging from $699.99 to $999.99. These items are available for purchase on Panini’s official website.(blog.paniniamerica.net)
Jason Howarth, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Athlete Relations for Panini America, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “We are excited to offer the first Arch Manning memorabilia to football fans who have been waiting for his memorabilia items.” He also highlighted Manning’s role as a “tremendous partner and ambassador” for Panini America. (blog.paniniamerica.net)
In a notable display of philanthropy, the initial auction of Manning’s autographed memorabilia featured a 1-of-1 Throwback Prizm Black Autographed card. This card sold for a record $102,500, with 100% of the proceeds benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. This charitable initiative underscores the positive impact that NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals can have on communities. (blog.paniniamerica.net, Chron)
As part of the new agreement, 30% of the proceeds from the sale of Manning’s autographed memorabilia will be donated directly to the University of Texas football program. This contribution is particularly timely, as the Longhorns are facing significant financial challenges. The projected cost for the 2025 football roster is between $35 million and $40 million, including a $20.5 million revenue-sharing allocation. This substantial investment underscores the importance of such partnerships in supporting collegiate athletics. (Chron)
This partnership is part of a broader initiative to expand NIL opportunities for college athletes. Panini America has launched the Panini College platform, a dedicated NIL platform that enables athletes at partner universities to have their own trading cards. The University of Texas is one of the inaugural schools participating in this program, which aims to provide athletes with compensation based on card sales. (blog.paniniamerica.net)
With Arch Manning poised to be the starting quarterback for the Longhorns in the 2025 season, this partnership not only enhances his personal brand but also provides significant support to the Texas football program. Fans and collectors alike can look forward to acquiring exclusive memorabilia while contributing to the success of collegiate athletics.(blog.paniniamerica.net)
This collaboration sets a precedent for future NIL partnerships, demonstrating how athletes, brands, and universities can work together to create mutually beneficial relationships that extend beyond the playing field.
