The FIFA23 video game license expires this year, but Major League Soccer and EA Sports have reached a multi-year arrangement that will keep their relationship going after that point until the game is rebranded EA Sports FC.
It appears that FIFA no longer has the rights to develop their own rival game to EA Sports FC, with exclusivity over one of the world’s fastest growing leagues and in a region that will host the World Cup in 2026. Details on FIFA’s own gaming goals have yet to be revealed.
In order to give the millions of Major League Soccer fans, one of the youngest and most diversified fan bases in North American sports, the most immersive and genuine gaming experience possible, the league stated the new relationship with EA Sports will enhance its integration with the game.
With the continued relationship, fans will be able to interact with their favorite Major League Soccer teams, players, and stadiums while playing video games. The partnership would be backed up by “extensive options” for fan interaction, such as co-marketing projects between Major League Soccer and EA and social media campaigns across MLS and club channels.
According to the agreement, EA will act as an Official Partner of the Major League Soccer’s own esports league, eMLS, which will have 27 MLS Clubs by the 2022 season, up from 19 in 2018. The collaboration includes the eMLS Cup, eMLS League Series 1 and 2.
Rox and Ken discuss how this partnership will effect both brands going forward, and what it means for soccer fans and gamers in the US.
