The latest reveal for EA FC 26 Ultimate Team brings exciting changes that promise to enhance your gaming experience this season. Following the criticisms of FC 25, particularly regarding promo saturation and inconsistent gameplay, the developers have implemented key updates to rejuvenate the franchise. While FC 25 faced significant challenges, the upcoming features for EA FC 26 are generating buzz among players. Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for this year’s action-packed Ultimate Team.
As an avid FIFA franchise player since its inception, I’ve seen the highs and lows of Ultimate Team. The recent developments for EA FC 26 mark a much-needed shift that many gamers, including myself, have eagerly awaited.
1. Live Events

This season, EA FC 26 expands its Live Events, introducing new competition types with varied entry requirements. Players will have to consider using squad members who typically wouldn’t make the cut, opening strategic gameplay opportunities. The addition of an Events hub provides a central location for navigating these competitions seamlessly.
Live Events may feature gameplay modifiers, such as:
- House Rules: Includes Classic Match, Max Chemistry, First to X Goals, Mystery Ball, No Rules, Long Range, Swaps, and Survival.
- Match Limits
- Solo only, Co-op only, or open matchmaking
2. Tournaments Return
Fans have long requested the return of Tournaments, and EA FC 26 delivers! This classic knockout format features flexible scheduling, popping up during key events rather than regularly. Each tournament will offer distinct rewards and squad rules, ensuring varying experiences throughout the season. Expect more details on timing and rewards on launch day.
3. Gauntlet

Introducing the all-new Gauntlet competition type! These tournaments challenge players to assemble unique squads for each of the five matches. Unlike Tournaments, Gauntlets don’t have eliminations, allowing for continuous play regardless of outcomes. Victory will unlock better rewards, adding excitement and strategic depth.
At launch, players can partake in the Ultimate Gauntlet, requiring three distinct squads across three matches, occurring bi-weekly.
4. Rivals Changes

As Rivals is a core mode for players, EA is implementing new features to keep the gameplay engaging. One of the exciting additions is called Bounties, which are spontaneous challenges during your Rivals matches. Completing these will reward you with Rivals Points, Champions Qualification Points, Coins, Packs, and more.
Additionally, there are special Bounties known as Duels. These challenges match you with players on similar goals, increasing the stakes even further as only one player will secure the reward. This competitive twist should keep Rivals fresh and engaging.
The return of Relegations introduces a Limited Checkpoints system, allowing players to monitor their losses and set boundaries on how many matches they can lose before being relegated. This aims to prevent players from stagnating in their current divisions.
5. Champions Changes
The old system for Champions Qualifications is no more; it’s been removed entirely. Players will now qualify based on reaching specific Rivals Divisions and collecting Champions Qualification Points, streamlining the process and aligning it more with player performance.
6. Challengers
Acknowledging the intense nature of Champions matches, EA introduces Challengers for a more relaxed experience. Designed for those outside the higher divisions, Challengers offer a distinct format and rewards, ensuring competitive fun without the sweat-inducing pressure of top-tier rankings.
7. Competitive Gameplay
EA is emphasizing gameplay improvements for EA FC 26, notably the separation of online and offline gameplay through designated presets. The Competitive preset aims to maintain the fast tempo players expect while addressing the frustrating elements from FC 25.
With all these thrilling updates to EA FC 26 Ultimate Team, which features are you most looking forward to? Share your thoughts in the comments below and prepare for an immersive football experience!
What new features are coming to EA FC 26 Ultimate Team this year? The upcoming season includes engaging Live Events, returning Tournaments, a new Gauntlet competition, and tweaks to Rivals and Champions modes. These changes aim to enhance the overall gameplay experience.
How do the Live Events in EA FC 26 work? Live Events now feature a variety of competition types with unique entry requirements, alongside a central hub for easy navigation. Players will need to utilize squad members they might typically overlook.
Will Tournaments be different in EA FC 26 compared to previous versions? Yes, Tournaments return with a fresh knockout format and schedules designed to offer unique rewards and experiences throughout the season.
What improvements have been made to Rivals? New features like Bounties and Duels enhance Rivals, while a Limited Checkpoints system helps manage player losses and relegations to better match skill levels.
Are Challengers a new mode in EA FC 26? Yes, Challengers provide a lower-tier option designed for players seeking a less intense experience compared to traditional Champions.
Curious about more gaming updates? Explore more at Moyens I/O and dive deeper into the world of EA sports gaming.