Benoit Pagotto, the visionary behind RTFKT's NFT innovations, has passed away at 41, leaving a significant mark on the intersection of digital art and mainstream fashion. The news emerged in mid-October following confirmations from industry figures including co-founder Steven Vasilev on X platform and Philippe Rodriguez, a former Avolta Partners founding partner who had orchestrated RTFKT's landmark 2021 acquisition by Nike.

The sudden death of Pagotto marks a turning point for the NFT community, which had pinned hopes on RTFKT as a bridge between digital culture and traditional corporations. Under his leadership, RTFKT achieved the rare feat of landing Nike's backing—a validation moment that seemed to legitimize NFTs in the eyes of institutional players. Yet despite this partnership, Nike announced plans to wind down RTFKT operations by late 2024, signaling shifting priorities in the digital asset space.

What made Benoit Pagotto's journey remarkable wasn't just the exit, but the trajectory: building a scrappy NFT studio from zero to becoming strategic enough for Nike to acquire. Before the shutdown, Pagotto was set to remain at Nike as Senior Director of Brand and Partnerships, suggesting his expertise would continue shaping the company's digital strategy. His unexpected departure represents a loss not only for RTFKT's team but for the broader effort to integrate blockchain technology into mainstream commerce.