FIFA hints at possible departure from EA sports partnership
Image Credit: Bethesda
Forgot password
Enter the email address you used when you joined and we'll send you instructions to reset your password.
If you used Apple or Google to create your account, this process will create a password for your existing account.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Reset password instructions sent. If you have an account with us, you will receive an email within a few minutes.
Something went wrong. Try again or contact support if the problem persists.
FIFA 22 cover
Image provided by EA Sports

FIFA hints at possible departure from EA sports partnership

FIFA is looking at other options for the future of the FIFA franchise

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.

Recommended Videos

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.

Author
Image of Rashidat Jimoh
Rashidat Jimoh
Jimoh Rashidat is a freelance esports writer with over two years of experience. She covers FIFA, League of Legends and general gaming content.