Ex-Real Madrid Striker Becomes First-ever Footballer Bought with Bitcoin

Former Real Madrid B striker, David Barral has become the first-ever player to be bought using cryptocurrency.

The 37-year-old striker officially signed for Spanish third division side, DUX Internacional de Madrid in a deal that was entirely funded with Bitcoin.

The club did not disclose the total value of the deal but revealed that the milestone was made possible by their new sponsor, Criptan, a local cryptocurrency exchange.

"David Barral new player of DUX Internacional de Madrid, welcome to the infinite club! He becomes the first signing in history in cryptocurrencies. Thanks to Criptan, our new sponsor, for making it possible."

Internacional shared on its social media pages.

Although Internacional is the first-ever football club to fund a transfer entirely through the use of Bitcoin, it is not the first time cryptocurrency has been used in professional sports.

In December 2020, Carolina Panthers offensive tackle, Russell Okung signed a deal to have exactly half of his NFL salary paid in Bitcoin. He was the first high-profile athlete in the United States to be paid with the cryptocurrency.

According to Okung, getting paid in Bitcoin is the first step of opting out of the corrupt, manipulated economy. He has also encouraged other professional sports stars to do the same.

Similarly, Internacional new signing, David Barral has expressed excitement over the transfer and without reservation for the fact that Bitcoin was used.

"I am happy to join this project, with desire, ambition and responsibility to continue competing and achieve important challenges in my sports career."

Before joining Internacional, Barral made more than 50 appearances for Real Madrid's reserve side. He later enjoyed spells with the likes of Sporting Gijon, Levante and most recently, Racing Santander.

According to tech experts, the purchase of Barral by Internacional marks the unique beginning of the use of Bitcoin in football. There are claims that given the recent rise and investor confidence in the cryptocurrency, it wouldn't be surprising if more football teams follow in their steps.