FIFA returns to games with exclusive release on Netflix

A brand new FIFA game is coming to Netflix in 2026.

The project is set to launch on the streaming giant’s platform in time for next year’s World Cup. The FIFA game is being developed and published by Delphi Interactive, though that company’s LinkedIn presence suggests that it does not employ any developers and a Variety interview last year indicates that the firm’s business is largely in licensing.

Delphi is also involved in IO Interactive’s James Bond project, 007: First Light. GamesIndustry.biz has emailed Delphi Interactive for clarification.

The FIFA project will be playable via smartphones.

“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,” the president of Netflix’s games business, Alain Tascan, said.

“We want to bring football back to its roots with something everyone can play with just the touch of a button.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino added: “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 be redefining 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.”

For almost 30 years, FIFA partnered exclusively with Electronic Arts for video game releases. This all ended in 2022 when EA decided to go its own way with EA Sports FC after reports that the football giant wanted to double its licensing fee to over $1 billion.

Netflix, meanwhile, is attempting to buy Warner Bros – including the company’s games arm – for $82.7 billion.