In a response to EA Sports, FIFA has hinted at the possibility of creating a new video game and ending their relationship with the video game company. On October 7, EA confirmed to fans that it was reviewing its naming rights and exploring renaming the game. The company had earlier filed a trademark for “EA SPORTS FC” in the UK and European intellectual property office.
The disagreement between both partners could lead to the end of a 28-year-old relationship.
FIFA’s response to EA’s actions
With no resolution about the future of the game’s name, FIFA released a statement expressing its stance on the issue.
“FIFA is bullish and excited about the future in gaming and esports for football, and it is clear that this needs to be a space that is occupied by more than one party controlling all rights,” FIFA said. “FIFA is engaging with various industry players, including developers, investors and analysts, to build out a long-term view of the gaming, esports and interactive entertainment sector.”
Moreover, FIFA wants to ensure that it maximizes the gaming and esports world.
“The relationship and affinity that the gaming and esports market has developed over time with the FIFA name clearly underscore that football-based gaming and the FIFA name are intrinsically intertwined,” the organization added.
Additionally, FIFA has also determined that the overlaps between virtual sport and FIFA’s football competitions must be more closely aligned. It also plans to use the World Cup platform to launch and integrate exciting new games and esports offerings.
The outcome will enable FIFA to have more options to provide the best experience for its consumers. With both EA and FIFA at loggerheads, FIFA 2022 may be the last game with the franchise name. However, FIFA’s decision to engage other industry players may see a new game created.
