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EA Sports FC 26: Expected Release Date, New Icons, Leaks, and What’s Coming Next


EA Sports FC 26
Image: EA Sports FC 26

With the football season wrapped up and EA Sports FC 25 reaching the end of its cycle, fans are already eyeing what’s next. While EA hasn't officially announced much about FC 26 yet, that hasn’t stopped leaks and insider reports from giving us a good idea of what to expect. From new ICONs to Spotify support and early access perks, there’s already a lot of buzz building around this year’s release.


Potential Release Date

Although EA has yet to confirm the launch day, reliable leaker FUT Sheriff claims that EA Sports FC 26 will release on Friday, September 26, for Standard Edition buyers. Those who purchase the Ultimate Edition will reportedly get a week of early access, beginning Friday, September 19. This timeline follows EA’s usual September pattern, so it wouldn’t be surprising if it turns out accurate.


Pre-Order Bonuses (Leaked)

Pre-orders aren’t open yet, but leaks have already hinted at a solid batch of rewards. These include:

  • An untradeable Icon

  • 4,600 to 6,000 FC Points

  • Extra Evolution slot

  • Season 1 Premium Pass

  • Unique 93+ Icon Evolution (for FC 25)

  • 7-day early access (Ultimate Edition only)


Though exact versions tied to each reward haven't been confirmed, it’s safe to assume most of the high-end perks are reserved for the Ultimate Edition.


Licensing Details

Licensing has always been a strong point for EA Sports FC, and FC 26 is expected to continue this tradition. While no official list has been shared, top leagues like the Premier League, LaLiga, and Bundesliga are expected to return.


However, fans of Italian football will once again miss out on fully licensed versions of AC Milan and Inter Milan, as both clubs remain exclusive to Konami’s eFootball. They’ll appear instead as Milano FC and Lombardia FC, with generic kits and stadiums.


There is some good news though—Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena could be making a comeback after being absent for seven years. Konami’s previous exclusivity has reportedly ended, opening the door for the stadium’s return in FC 26.


Spotify Integration

Another exciting addition could be Spotify support, building on a feature that was tested regionally during FC 25. According to leaks, FC 26 could bring this feature to all players, allowing you to play, pause, and skip tracks mid-game via an in-game tab or your mobile device. It’s a small but welcome change that could enhance gameplay sessions, especially during long grind matches.


New ICONs Revealed

Leak further revealed a major expansion in ICON players for FC 26. The list includes Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a surprising addition given his 2021 dispute with EA over image rights. His inclusion likely means that long-standing issues between the two parties have been resolved.


Here’s the full leaked list of new ICONs expected in FC 26:

  • Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden) – ST

  • Andres Iniesta (Spain) – CM

  • Toni Kroos (Germany) – CM

  • Marcelo (Brazil) – LB

  • Giorgio Chiellini (Italy) – CB

  • Alex Morgan (USA) – ST

  • Francesco Totti (Italy) – ST

  • Oliver Kahn (Germany) – GK

  • Sara Thunebro (Sweden) – LB

  • Cha Bum-kun (South Korea) – ST

  • Steffi Jones (Germany) – CB

  • Sissi (Brazil) – CAM


This is a much larger ICON class compared to previous games, showing that EA is pushing for a broader and more diverse roster.


Final Thoughts

While many details are still under wraps, leaks have already painted a pretty detailed picture of what EA Sports FC 26 might offer. From a familiar September release window to exciting new ICONs and even Spotify features, the next entry in the franchise is shaping up to be another big step forward.


As always, take leaks with a grain of salt until EA drops official confirmations — but if history is anything to go by, most of these details will hold true.

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