Game Publishers like EA Sports and Sega are the Top Gainers from FIFA World Cup 2026
FIFA’s non-exclusive licensing strategy has been benefitting gaming publishers like EA Sports and Sega in a big way. EA Sports FC has always been one of the popular football simulation games and despite losing its FIFA license it continues to dominate the gaming segment. EA and FIFA officially ended their 30-year partnership in 2022 due to a licensing dispute. While FIFA 23 was the final game to carry the FIFA name, EA did not lose the rights to the actual player likenesses, clubs, stadiums, or leagues. The franchise successfully rebranded and continues under the name EA Sports FC. With FIFA World Cup 2026 going on, it would be wrong to say that EA Sports FC would not get enough engagement and monetisation, as it has lost its FIFA license. Instead, it is the biggest gainer from FIFA World Cup 2026, but yes, the benefits now can be enjoyed by a wider range of gaming publishers.
How FIFA World Cup is Building Engagement for Football Games?
A new report from Ampere Analysis in collaboration with The Game Business titled “Winning Attention & Defining Cultural Moments – Key forces shaping console/PC games in 2026” reveals when EA added official World Cup 2022 gameplay, the game’s daily active users jumped 20% compared to EA Sports FC 25 during a similar period. While full game sales may not see the same boost in 2026 because the World Cup happens in summer, EA is expected to drive more player activity and increase in‑game purchases during this period.
Ampere Analysis has also revealed in its report that since 2023, FIFA has allowed multiple companies to use its license, so the benefits of the upcoming World Cup will be spread across different games. Konami has gained from being FIFA’s esports partner for the annual FIFAe World Cup. Sega’s Football Manager 2026 now includes a World Cup gameplay where players can manage national teams. Netflix, working with Delphi Interactive, is also entering the soccer gaming market with FIFA World Cup – Launch Edition, designed to boost subscribers, attract ads, and strengthen its video business during FIFA World Cup 2026.
FIFA is now bringing the benefits of increased player engagement and higher revenues through monetisation for different players in the gaming industry. However, it would be wrong to assume that EA Sports FC has lost the opportunity to gain from FIFA World Cup 2026.
Also Read:
Free Fire MAX Redeem Codes for June 30, 2026
