Binance users who filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against Cristiano Ronaldo for promoting the cryptocurrency exchange are now looking for other ways to reach the elusive soccer player, including X (formerly Twitter).
The motion, filed on January 16, 2024, argues for alternative services due to difficulties with traditional methods. Their proposal includes e-mail, X, and website publication, which they argue complies with international agreements and provides notice to the defendant.
The motion highlights the uncertainty surrounding Ronaldo’s current address in Saudi Arabia and claims that The Hague Conventions do not prohibit these service methods, particularly when the person’s address is unknown.
The plaintiffs have, per the motion, made a special webpage for the case materials, which they will subsequently forward “to the email addresses of his domestic counsel involved in ongoing U.S. federal litigation as well as the verified Twitter accounts of defendant Ronaldo.”
Creative Tactics
Undeterred, plaintiffs are resorting to unconventional means. Among the reported attempts:
- Airdrop: Sending legal documents as NFTs (non-fungible tokens) directly to Ronaldo’s crypto wallet addresses.
- Social Media Blitz: Posting messages with embedded QR codes containing the lawsuit on Ronaldo’s social media pages and fan groups.
- Targeted Advertising: Displaying ads with legal summons in locations Ronaldo is known to frequent.
Legal Validity
These unconventional methods raise questions about their legal validity. While using digital channels for service is gaining traction, courts may not yet recognize airdrops or social media postings as legitimate channels. However, these attempts could put pressure on Ronaldo to accept formal service and engage in the legal process.
Publicity and Potential Impact
Regardless of the outcome, the lawsuit and its unusual serving methods have garnered significant media attention. This highlights the growing scrutiny of celebrities promoting crypto projects and the potential legal consequences of misleading endorsements.
