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WILL THE 2026 WORLD CUP TEAMS BE USED IN VIDEO GAMES?

The 2026 World Cup won't just be experienced on the pitch; it will also be played on consoles. Whether you prefer FIFA, EA Sports FC, or alternative titles, fans will be able to control their favorite national teams, compete in the virtual cup, and recreate their idols' goals from the comfort of their couch. With 48 teams, new licenses, stunning graphics, and potential story modes, football video games are poised to be huge hits. In this article, we'll tell you everything we know so far about the use of 2026 World Cup teams in video games.

Official Video Games and Tournament Licenses


One ​​of the big questions is: which company has the rights to the 2026 World Cup? After the split between FIFA and EA Sports, the landscape changed. FIFA has already announced that it is developing its own official video game for the World Cup, while EA Sports FC (the successor to FIFA 23) will continue to include World Cup content thanks to agreements with national teams and confederations.


What will happen to EA Sports FC?


Although EA no longer has the FIFA brand, it does retain the rights to more than 300 clubs and 100 national teams. It is expected that EA Sports FC 26 (or the World Cup special edition) will add a World Cup mode with all qualified teams, official stadiums, and real tournament stages. Meanwhile, FIFA plans to release its own game focused solely on the World Cup experience, with more arcade-style gameplay and cross-platform compatibility, including cloud and mobile options. EA Sports holds licenses with UEFA, CONMEBOL, and more. FIFA works with third-party developers for its official game. The 2022 World Cup was the most played mode in FIFA 23 during November. More than 70% of fans are asking for the inclusion of smaller teams like Panama or Morocco

  • Possible inclusion of online cooperative mode for the World Cup


    • So yes, everything indicates that we will be able to play with the 2026 World Cup teams in more than one video game. Only the developer's jersey changes, but the passion remains intact.


    What game modes and content can you expect


    With the expansion to 48 teams and the tournament split between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, the game modes will become more complex, varied, and addictive. The developers are preparing experiences that blend realistic simulation, narrative, and social gameplay.


    Full and customizable World Cup mode


    In EA Sports FC or the new FIFA game, players will be able to recreate the entire tournament: group stage, round of 32, round of 16, all the way to the final. A custom mode will also be included to create your own World Cup with unique rules, such as mixed teams or random groups. Additionally, some rumors mention a "story mode" in the style of The Journey, where you would guide your team from the qualifiers to lifting the trophy with cinematics and key decisions along the way. Downloadable Content and Online Events: As in 2018 and 2022, World Cup content is expected to be released as a free update or DLC (downloadable content) for players. Global online tournaments, daily challenges, and special rewards will also be activated in modes like Ultimate Team and Pro Clubs.


    • National teams with real-time updated rosters

    • Authentic national anthems and introductions

    • National team career mode

    • Crossplay and new console compatibility

    • Prediction events with rewards in coins or special cards


    This type of content means the World Cup doesn't just last a month: you experience it before, during, and after the tournament on your console or PC.


    The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

    The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

    Impact on fans and interesting facts about soccer gamers


    Video games are now an official part of the soccer ritual. More and more fans are discovering players, creating tactics, or reliving historic matches with a joystick. And during the 2026 World Cup, this will reach another level with the digital participation of national teams on all platforms.


    Playing is also experiencing the World Cup


    In the 2022 World Cup, more than 120 million simulated matches were recorded in FIFA 23. The game accurately predicted that Argentina would be champion (yes, really). EA Sports FC plans to integrate AI that predicts live results based on your gameplay decisions. Integration with social media, streaming, and official tournaments between content creators and casual players is also expected. There's even talk of virtual matches before the real ones, where fans vote on lineups and tactics from within the game.


    • 74% of soccer gamers play with their national team in every World Cup

    • Brazil, Argentina, and France are the most chosen national teams

    • The World Cup mode had more than 20 million users in FIFA 18

    • Collaborations with brands are expected for themed national team skins

    • Some consoles will include special bundles with a 2026 World Cup edition


    So now you know: if you couldn't get tickets for the final, always You can lift the trophy from your console. The World Cup can also be played with a joystick in hand.

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