What was once a simple collector's item has evolved into a true art form, and Topps is celebrating this transformation in style. To mark the launch of the new Topps Chrome UEFA Club Competitions 2025-26, the brand is bringing the magic of modern trading cards to life in London—complete with art installations, rare cards, and special appearances from football legends like Robert Pires and rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Trading cards have come a long way from the playground swaps of yesterday. With limited designs, premium materials, and even embedded jersey pieces, they've become a powerful blend of sports and pop culture. Topps tapped into this trend by hosting the Chrome Gallery in London on May 7 and 8—a curated exhibition that explores the stories, emotions, and cultural moments behind today's most coveted cards.

From a child's first favorite player pinned to a bedroom wall to a limited-edition card that's now a highly sought-after treasure, the Chrome Gallery showcases the passion of collecting in all its forms. Visitors can explore immersive storytelling spaces, view rare cards, and admire specially created artworks that capture the thrill of the hunt.

Representing Germany at the international exhibition is Ivan Beslic from Düsseldorf. A passionate collector and marker artist, Beslic contributed three unique pieces created especially for the event. His works interpret players from the Rookie Class—Topps' spotlight on standout young talents—including German international Lennart Karl, Brazilian dribbler Estêvão Willian of Chelsea FC, and the Rookie Cards logo itself. Created with markers on paper and visually inspired by '90s hip-hop, these pieces bring a fresh, street-smart energy to the gallery.

"It was only a matter of time before trading cards made it into an art gallery," Beslic says. "Every card is a work of art in itself—whether it's painted, designed in software, or created from photographs. Each one has its own creative story behind it."