Video game maker, EA Sports, and FIFA, soccer’s global governing body, have parted their years-long relationship without an agreement to extend.
The video game company said it will continue to make football video games which, from 2023, will have a new name – EA Sports FC.
The current deal, which was to end after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has been adjusted to run through to the Women’s World Cup next summer.
FIFA also confirmed that the organisation will partner with new third-party studios and publishers after the announcement that their annual game with EA Sports would go on without the FIFA licence.
The organisation intends for the license to be non-exclusive, allowing FIFA to work with a number of different publishers rather than having an exclusive partnership like the one with EA in years prior.
Commenting on the development, FIFA president Gianni Infantino said, “I can assure you that the only authentic, real game that has the FIFA name will be the best one available for gamers and football fans,” Infantino said. “The FIFA name is the only global, original title. FIFA 23, FIFA 24, FIFA 25, and FIFA 26, and so on – the constant is the FIFA name and it will remain forever and remain THE BEST.”
“The interactive gaming and esports sector are on a path of unrivaled growth and diversification. FIFA’s strategy is to ensure we can make the most of all future options and ensure a wide range of products and opportunities for gamers, fans, member associations, and partners.”