Benoît Pagotto, RTFKT Pioneer, Passes Away at 41

RugResistant · 2026-01-21T09:41:25+00:00

Benoît Pagotto, co-founder of RTFKT and key figure in Nike's NFT venture, unexpectedly passed away at 41, leaving a significant impact on the Web3 community and the digital collectibles space. His contributions to RTFKT led to Nike's acquisition, marking a pivotal moment in the brand's entry into NFTs.

RugResistant

2026-01-21 09:41:25

Abstract generation in progress

The Web3 community mourns the loss of Benoît Pagotto, the visionary co-founder of RTFKT, Nike’s pioneering NFT venture. The news of Pagotto’s unexpected death at age 41 was first shared publicly through a LinkedIn post by Philippe Rodriguez, a founding partner at Avolta Partners, the consulting firm that facilitated RTFKT’s landmark acquisition by Nike in December 2021. Rodriguez described Pagotto as both a valued client and cherished friend, emphasizing that the passing had been entirely unforeseen.

A Prominent Figure in Nike’s NFT Experiment

Benoît Pagotto was instrumental in establishing RTFKT as one of the most influential players in the digital collectibles space before its purchase by the sports giant. His contributions to the platform’s early growth and vision proved pivotal in attracting Nike’s attention. At the time of the acquisition, RTFKT represented Nike’s boldest stride into the NFT marketplace, signaling the traditional brand’s commitment to Web3 innovation. Most recently, Pagotto had transitioned to leading the company’s Brand and Partnerships division as Senior Director, expanding his influence within Nike’s organizational structure.

Confirmation and Community Response

The news gained further credibility when Steven Vasilev, Benoît Pagotto’s fellow co-founder of RTFKT, publicly acknowledged the announcement on the X platform. The dual confirmation from prominent industry figures underscored the significance of the loss across the Web3 and traditional business sectors. The sudden nature of Pagotto’s departure shocked colleagues and followers alike, prompting reflections on his lasting contributions to the NFT space.

RTFKT’s Evolving Status

Nike announced plans to shut down RTFKT in December 2024, marking a shift in the company’s NFT strategy. Despite the platform’s eventual closure, Benoît Pagotto’s legacy as a pioneer in bridging Web3 with mainstream commerce remains influential in discussions about digital innovation and brand evolution in the crypto era.

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