FIFA to Return to Video Games in 2026 With Netflix as New Partner

FIFA Makes a Comeback in Gaming

FIFA has officially announced its return to video games after several years away from the gaming scene. The football governing body will release a new FIFA game in 2026, ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Netflix Secures the Rights

In a surprising move, Netflix, not a major game studio, has secured the rights to publish the new FIFA game. Netflix confirmed that the game will be developed and published by Delphi Interactive, a studio that has not yet released a video game.

How the Game Will Be Played

According to Netflix, subscribers will be able to play the game:

On iOS and Android devices through the Netflix app On select smart TVs, using their mobile phones as controllers

The game will be free for Netflix subscribers.

Why EA Sports Left FIFA

EA Sports, which first released FIFA games in 1993, ended its 30-year partnership with FIFA in 2023 due to licensing disagreements. EA then rebranded its football game as EA Sports FC.

Despite the split, the EA series remained successful. EA FC 24 became the best-selling game in the UK in 2023, and the franchise still has an estimated 150 million players worldwide.

FIFA Reacts to the New Deal

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the organization is “very excited” about the partnership with Netflix.

He described the game as:

“The beginning of a new era of digital football.”

Mixed Reactions From Fans

While some fans are excited, others are skeptical—especially about the mobile-first approach.

One fan wrote on X:

“FIFA should never have left EA.”

Another added:

“Let’s see what the new game’s got.”