EA Sports and FIFA have both confirmed that FIFA 23 will be released as planned later this year, but will there be a FIFA 24?
Electronic Arts (EA) and FIFA have both already confirmed that their lucrative partnership will end after the launch of FIFA 23. The game publisher has also confirmed that they will launch a new gaming title called EA Sports FC, which will be the successor to EA Sports' FIFA series.
Following the confirmation of the high-profile partnership ending, EA Sports confirmed that popular game modes such as Ultimate Team, Pro Clubs and Volta Football will still feature on future EA Sports FC titles, and the game will feature fully licensed players from the most popular leagues in the world, with agreements in place with over 19,000 athletes, 700 teams, 100 stadiums and more than 30 leagues for future games.
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But FIFA has also confirmed that they will launch new football video games, developed with third-party studios and publishers, providing more choice for football and gaming fans. In relation to the FIFA name, the governing body of association football has also confirmed that they are still planning to launch FIFA 24, FIFA 25 and even a FIFA 26 in the future, stating that it will "remain forever".
"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," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
"The FIFA name is the only global, original title. FIFA 23, FIFA 24, FIFA 25 and FIFA 26, and so on - the constant is the FIFA name and it will remain forever and remain THE BEST.
“The interactive gaming and esports sector is on a path of unrivalled 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.”
Recent reports suggest that Take-Two Interactive, which currently owns games publishers like Rockstar Games and 2K, could be the third-party publisher that could take on the development of a new FIFA game. In recent comments made to IGN, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick praised the FIFA brand.
"We're definitely interested in expanding our opportunities in sports, and FIFA has a great brand and incredible clout, but we have no current plans to discuss," Zelnick told IGN.
As FIFA announced in October 2021, they have stated their intention to work with a range of partners rather than lock up all gaming and esports rights exclusively with one publisher for the long term. FIFA plans to launch a portfolio of new games during 2022 and 2023. FIFA has also confirmed that they are currently engaging with leading game publishers, media companies and investors in regard to the development of a major new FIFA simulation football game title for 2024.
