FIFA returns to video games with Netflix deal

The as-yet-unnamed FIFA game will be exclusively available via Netflix as part of a standard subscription and is being developed by Delphi Interactive, a studio that is working on an upcoming James Bond game.

FIFA's previous publisher, Electronic Arts (EA), stopped using the FIFA name in 2023 after the two sides failed to agree on new financial terms. EA renamed its game EA Sports FC, which has proved popular with gamers.

Details of the new Netflix game have not been revealed. However, a Netflix press release stated the game will be "fast to learn, thrilling to master, and built for anyone to jump in." The statement also revealed that the game will be playable – either solo or online – without a controller, as "all you need is Netflix and your phone."

Netflix launched its mobile games service, Netflix Games, in 2021, rolling out titles such as Stranger Things: 1984.

“The FIFA World Cup is going to be the cultural event of 2026, and now fans will be able to celebrate their fandom by bringing the game right into their living rooms,” said Alain Tascan, President of Games at Netflix. “We want to bring football back to its roots with something everyone can play with just the touch of a button.” 

Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, said, “FIFA is very excited to team up with Netflix Games and Delphi Interactive ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This major collaboration is a key milestone in FIFA’s commitment to innovation in the football gaming space, which aspires to reach billions of football fans of all ages everywhere in the world and will redefine the pure notion of simulation games. Our reimagined game truly marks the beginning of a new era of digital football. It will be available for free to Netflix members and is a great historic step for FIFA.”

FIFA recently selected the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in downtown Dallas, Texas as the official hub for the FIFA World Cup 2026 International Broadcast Centre (IBC). Discover more here.