Netflix has found itself in the headlines again, and this time it’s due to a big announcement that they’re bringing FIFA back to gamers “in time for” the World Cup 2026.
It has been over three years since a FIFA video game was released to the masses. This is due to a fallout between the Football Federation and EA, which saw FIFA demand a huge ransom (to the tune of approximately $250m per year) for the licensing and name of the federation to serve on the cover of the title. EA ultimately moved on from making a deal and has since been releasing a FIFA-like football franchise called EA Sports FC. While EA Sports FC continues to release titles (there have been three), the federation has faded in the gaming space until today’s announcement from Netflix. FIFA is coming back, but not in the way fans of the franchise remember.
Netflix has promised FIFA is making a comeback in time for the World Cup 2026, and all fans need is their smartphones and TV. President of Games at Netflix, Alain Tascan says, “The FIFA World Cup is going to be the cultural event of 2026, and now fans will be able to celebrate their fandom by bringing the game right into their living rooms,” adding, “We want to bring football back to its roots with something everyone can play with just the touch of a button.” The new title in the franchise is under development by Delphi Interactive, and it will be exclusive to Netflix Games.
While it remains to be seen whether the new title will use a numbered entry like previous installments, Delphi Interactive assures players it will be the “most fun, approachable, and global football game ever created.” The new title will be made available on both Android and iOS, and it will be playable through the Netflix app.
While no other details were offered at the time, Netflix says it’s coming sometime in 2026.
