NFC and its Increasing Role in Sports Authentication

In the February 2024 edition of Authentication & Brand News™, we examined how David Beckham, the celebrated former England footballer, was intensifying efforts against counterfeit manufacturers illicitly selling fake products – including clothing and fragrances – under his brand. This article looks at the latest organisations to have adopted near-field communication (NFC) technology for authenticating sporting apparel and memorabilia.

The Bees and microchips 

Brentford Football Club, commonly known as ‘The Bees’, has recently become the first English Premier League team to use microchip technology in match-worn shirts. This initiative began with Brentford’s game against Everton in February, when the club embedded microchips into its jerseys to provide proof of authenticity.

The Bees has partnered with ‘MatchWornShirt’, a platform that connects fans with match-worn memorabilia. It is now using technology developed by MatchWornShirt’s sister company, Fabricks, to enhance authentication. Before each match, a microchip is heat-pressed onto the bottom of each shirt. Using NFC, a smartphone scan can instantly verify the jersey’s provenance, including details of who wore it and in which match.