A fan engagement platform powered by AI and co-founded by former Brazil World Cup champions Roberto Carlos and Gilberto Silva has secured over £200,000 in funding as it prepares to launch.
Ex-Real Madrid star Carlos and Arsenal invincible Silva co-founded London-based Striver with former Institute of Recruiters ambassador Tim Chase.
England defenders Sol Campbell and Harry Maguire have also shown their support for the firm.
The platform positions itself as a safe, abuse-free social network that fosters connections between football players and supporters, offering unique access to the sport.
It launched a crowdfunding initiative via Republic Europe and has already exceeded its £200,000 fundraising goal.
“Football taught me the value of connection and that’s why I co-founded Striver,” said Silva.
“Striver is more than just an app – it’s a movement. A new way for fans and footballers to connect with respect and real interaction.”
The business is looking to build a scalable model featuring diverse revenue sources, such as advertising, subscription services, brand partnerships and AI technology licensing.
All content is filtered via advanced AI moderation tools prior to publishing, removing 99.98% of hate and abuse.
“In recent years, the rise of social media has given fans unprecedented access to their favourite players but has also created a breeding ground for hate, harassment, and abuse,” reads a statement on its website.
“This alarming trend of online abuse faced by footballers has far-reaching consequences. It’s time to stop that.
“Striver represents a groundbreaking initiative which is pioneering the future of how the football community interacts online. Our app uses highly advanced AI technology to moderate abuse and hate.
“With this safe space created, talent and fans alike have an environment where they can engage authentically as themselves.”
Back in November, Carlos and Silva acted as team captains at StriveAid – a football match to raise money for mental health charity CALM.
The match, which took place at Lewes’ The Dripping Pan Stadium, played host to former Premier League regulars Jens Lehmann, Stiliyan Petrov and Jérémie Aliadière; YouTubers Danny Aarons, Kristen Hanby, JaackMaate and Thogden; and Republic of Ireland Women’s high performance coach Ivi Casagrande.
Chase added: “The time for a platform that puts respect, community, and the love of the game first, is now.
“Striver is built to do just that. Proud to be spreading the word. This is just the start!”
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