Why did FC 26 change its release date?

When a major company like EA decides to change the release date of one of its biggest annual titles, it’s not a simple move. According to the latest leaks from the FGZ page, FC 26 won’t launch on its usual September date or during the last quarter of the year. Instead, it’s expected to release earlier—either in August or early September 2025. The reason? To avoid clashing directly with the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto VI.

 The impact of GTA 6 on the market

Everyone knows that GTA 6 is one of the most anticipated games in recent history. When it drops, it’s expected to be a global event in every sense. That’s why even a giant like EA, which dominates the sports gaming scene, realizes that going head-to-head with GTA 6 isn’t the smartest move, especially in terms of timing.

FC 25 performance & the backup plan

What makes this story even more interesting is the reason behind EA’s change in plans. According to the leaks, EA believes that FC 25 underperformed, so this time around, they want to play it safe. Another surprise mentioned is that Real Madrid and England star "Jude Bellingham" will reportedly return as the cover star for the second year in a row.

 Is GTA 6 really that intimidating?

This all raises a big question: has GTA 6 become that powerful of a title? Powerful enough to make a global sports game like FC 26 step aside? Honestly, yes—it’s entirely possible when you consider the scale of anticipation surrounding GTA 6.

What makes GTA 6 so different?

GTA 6 isn’t just a game—it’s a cultural event. When it launches, all eyes will be on it, and any other title released in the same window could easily get overshadowed. Rockstar has a solid reputation for delivering game-changing titles, which makes any publisher think twice about sharing a release window with them.

FC 26 is annual… the surprise factor is missing

Meanwhile, FC 26 is part of an annual release cycle, so it doesn’t have the same element of surprise or long build-up that GTA 6 has. That’s why release timing could be the most crucial factor in ensuring the game gets the attention it needs.

 Will timing really make a difference?

The real question is: will adjusting the release window actually help EA? Will it result in better sales performance? That depends on several factors—like the game’s quality, market competition at the time, and overall player interest.

From a marketing standpoint

From a marketing perspective, releasing in August might give FC 26 a two-to-three-week spotlight before the GTA 6 storm hits. That window might be just enough for advertising, pre-orders, and early sales—especially for fans who pick up the game every year.

A calculated move… or a risky one?

In the end, it seems like EA is trying to be cautious and strategic, especially in today’s increasingly competitive landscape. If the rumor turns out to be true, this would be a smart move to avoid going head-to-head with a juggernaut like GTA 6.

But the question remains: Will the strategy work? Or is the GTA name alone enough to dominate everything around it—no matter when it releases?