Key Highlights:
- From 2023, EA Sports FC will be introduced after it creates the final game in partnership with FIFA later this year.
- FIFA promised a “number of new non-simulation games (that) are already under production” and will launch ahead of the 2022 World Cup
- Andrew Wilson, EA CEO said, “We’re thankful for our many years of great partnership with FIFA.”
Recently, Electronic Arts and FIFA ended their long-term partnerships after both the sides failed to strike a new licensing deal. From 2023, EA Sports FC will be introduced after it creates the final game in partnership with FIFA later this year. FIFA earned about $150 million annually from the licensing rights from the game. It is expected to earn $7 billion total revenue, the single biggest commercial earner from 2019-2022.
FIFA promised a “number of new non-simulation games (that) are already under production” and will launch ahead of the 2022 World Cup, before it starts in Qatar in November.
FIFA said it plans to create a “new gaming model” and cited the recent launch of its streaming service FIFA+. In the statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said, “I can assure you that the only authentic, real game that has the FIFA name will be the best one available for gamers and football fans.”
Thankful for great partnership between EA FIFA
Andrew Wilson, EA CEO said, “We’re thankful for our many years of great partnership with FIFA.” “The future of global football is very bright, and fandom around the world has never been stronger.” He promised “even more innovative and authentic experiences to the growing football audience” while its soon-to-be rival FIFA spoke of creating “new, interactive experiences to fans across the globe.”
Infantino stated, “The interactive gaming and e-sports sector is on a path of unrivaled growth and diversification.” “FIFA’s strategy is to ensure we can make the most of all future options and ensure a wide range of products and opportunities for gamers, fans, member associations and partners.”
