Bitzio Gets Animation Rights to Colombian Soccer Legend Valderrama

Bitzio, Inc., a leader in apps, mobile media and behavioral analytics, today announced that is has acquired the exclusive Latin America and United States animation rights to Carlos Valderrama, one of the most popular and widely recognizable Colombian football players of all time.

Carlos Valderrama, also known as El Pibe (“The Kid”), is a former Colombian football player. His mass of blond, permed hair makes him one of Colombia’s most recognizable footballers. He was a member of the Colombia national football team in the 1990s. Between 1985 and 1998 he represented Colombia in 111 full internationals and scored 11 times, making him the most capped player in the country’s history. In 2004, Valderrama was included in the FIFA 100, a list of “greatest living footballers” chosen by Pelé to celebrate the 100th anniversary of FIFA.

“We are so incredibly excited to be working with a star like Carlos. His career achievements speak for themselves – but it’s what his legions of adoring fans continue to say about him that makes this so amazing for Bitzio. Carlos continues to be a revered figure all across Latin America, and the rest of the athletic world. We’re so thrilled to see our sports and entertainment strategy coming to life, starting with a global superstar like Carlos Valderrama,” said William Schonbrun, President and CEO of Bitzio.

“Carlos also has such a unique look that makes him so easily recognizable, which is perfect for many of our apps – like PiciBooth. We’re planning to do so many amazing things with the animated Carlos Valderrama character, starting with a special PiciBooth edition where fans can take their own pictures and apply big blond permed hair and a moustache to look like Carlos, then share with friends, and other Carlos fans. We have plans to release many apps and digital experiences with Carlos in the coming months that will engage and delight his fans for years. The goal of all of these apps is to allow fans to get closer to the players, and clubs, they support and love,” continued Schonbrun.