After the split between Electronic Arts and FIFA, what was long known as “the world’s most popular game” is set to return just in time for next year’s World Cup. The “FIFA” franchise is being revived with a fresh approach, developed by Delphi Interactive, the studio behind titles such as “007 First Light,” and with an unexpected twist: Netflix will serve as the publisher. According to an announcement from the streaming giant, the redesigned football simulation aims to let players “experience the excitement and drama of the tournament in its purest and most engaging form,” offering a format that is easy to learn, exciting to master, and suitable for players of all ages. 

Unlike the highly complex football simulators previously developed by Electronic Arts, the new “FIFA” is designed around accessibility and simplicity. Players will be able to compete solo or online with friends, and the game’s main appeal lies in its ease of access: all that is required is a Netflix subscription and a smartphone. “We want to bring football back to its roots, with a game that anyone can play at the push of a button,” said Alain Tascan, president of Netflix’s gaming division, emphasizing the company’s intention to reach a much broader audience than traditional sports simulation fans.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the partnership with Netflix as a major “milestone” in the organization’s commitment to innovation in football entertainment. He said the collaboration aims to reach billions of football fans of all ages worldwide and to redefine the football simulation genre. According to Infantino, the renewed “FIFA” marks the beginning of a new era for digital football, with a more inclusive and globally focused vision.

The game will be part of Netflix’s growing games catalog, which subscribers can access directly on their televisions alongside their favorite series and films, using their smartphones as controllers. It remains unclear whether the title will later be released on PC or consoles, with further details expected to emerge in 2026. Casper Daugaard, founder and CEO of Delphi Interactive, highlighted the symbolic importance of the project in the official statement.

“Football is the greatest passion in the world,” he said, adding that the team feels honored to help shape the next generation of the franchise. As lifelong FIFA fans, Daugaard explained, their mission is straightforward: to make “FIFA” the most fun, accessible, and global football game in history, reimagined for a new generation of players and modern digital consumption habits.