The new FIFA will launch exclusively on Netflix for the 2026 World Cup
The video game industry has received one of its most impactful announcements: the new FIFA title — usually associated with traditional franchises like EA Sports or alternative sports offerings — will not be developed by the usual competition and will instead arrive exclusively on the Netflix platform in celebration of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This announcement has generated mixed reactions —from excitement about innovation to curiosity about how it will deliver a solid experience— outside the traditional console and PC ecosystem. It represents a strategic move that fuses two entertainment giants: the world’s most popular sport and the largest streaming platform globally.
The idea of a FIFA game outside the traditional release channels — consoles, PC, physical distribution and digital storefronts — represents a major step toward a more accessible and centralized model for millions of potential players.
Netflix entering football gaming: a disruptive move
Netflix has progressively expanded its catalog beyond series and movies, venturing into video games included within the standard subscription. However, the announcement of a flagship title like FIFA is, so far, its boldest initiative.
The proposal will be a full football game designed specifically for the platform, featuring licensing for competitions, national teams, gameplay modes relevant to the 2026 World Cup and some social features integrated with the Netflix experience, though technical details (such as controls, progression and compatibility with different devices) are still to be confirmed.
Unlike traditional releases in physical or digital storefront formats, this game will not require an additional purchase if you already have an active Netflix subscription. This makes it accessible to millions of subscribers without additional financial barriers.
What this means for the FIFA franchise
The FIFA series has been synonymous with virtual football for decades, first developed by EA Sports and later with alternative sports licenses held by various entities. Netflix securing exclusivity for a new FIFA title tied to a global event like the 2026 World Cup raises several strategic questions:
- Will Netflix become a new hub for global sports titles?
- How will this affect the future development of traditional franchise competitors?
- Will the game include microtransactions, seasonal passes or its own economy?
- Will it retain official licenses for teams, stadiums and competitions?
Although many of these questions currently lack official answers, what is clear is that the move reshapes how high-profile sports games can be distributed and consumed.
Play EA FC 26 in the meantime on WINNDER.com
While we wait for the new Netflix-exclusive FIFA, there are plenty of ways to keep enjoying virtual football on traditional platforms. On WINNDER.com you can play EA FC 26, the latest installment carrying forward the legacy of the traditional football franchise with all the official licenses, game modes and real-time updates.
EA FC 26 continues to offer:
- Competitive online and casual modes.
- Roster updates based on real-world seasons.
- Single-player experiences with campaigns and challenges.
- Friendly matches with your favorite teams.
- A live ecosystem with rankings, events and tournaments.
While Netflix prepares its title for the 2026 World Cup, EA FC 26 remains the go-to choice for players wanting the excitement of continuous football action.
Expected features of the new FIFA on Netflix
While all official details have not yet been published, it is anticipated that the title will include:
- Licensing for major national teams relevant to the 2026 World Cup.
- Quick and accessible game modes for all audiences.
- Integration with Netflix user profiles and synchronized progression.
- Online matches with friends and global leaderboards.
- Themed events tied to the 2026 World Cup.
Netflix may also leverage its platform advantages to include exclusive content, interactive narratives or unique visual experiences tied to the sport.
Impact on the gaming and streaming industries
This announcement could usher in a new era where streaming platforms are not only mediums for viewing content but also launchpads for high-impact global games.
For developers and distributors, it means:
- Increased competition for player attention.
- Exploration of hybrid consumption models (streaming + gaming).
- Technical challenges to deliver smooth experiences across diverse devices.
- Expanded target audiences beyond traditional consoles.
For players, it represents:
- Access to full sports titles at no additional cost beyond subscription.
- The ability to play across multiple devices linked to their Netflix account.
- An experience tied to the global sporting narrative of the World Cup.
Challenges and unanswered questions
Despite the excitement, several questions remain:
- How will controls and gameplay adjust for non-traditional screens?
- Will there be competitive online modes with ranking?
- Will the game be updated throughout the World Cup season?
- Will it match the simulation depth expected by FIFA fans?
- Can Netflix compete with established titles if the experience falls short?
These questions will be addressed as Netflix releases more information about development, features, dates and compatible platforms.
Conclusion: virtual football enters a new era
The announcement of a FIFA exclusive to Netflix for the 2026 World Cup is one of the most disruptive pieces of news in the world of sports video games this year. This move combines the power of the world’s most popular sport with the largest digital entertainment platform, offering accessible experiences to millions of users without extra cost.
As final details unfold, virtual football fans have a lot to look forward to: new, expanded and potentially revolutionary gaming experiences.
