EA FC 26 Season 10 (Pre-Season) went live on 13 August
EA Sports FC 26 Season 10: Pre-Season launched on Thursday, 13 August 2026, at approximately 8:00 AM BST -- 12:30 PM IST for players in India (also 3:00 AM EDT / 12:00 AM PT). This is the final season of FC 26 before EA moves on to FC 27, and it brings new Packs, Player Items, Evolution Consumables, and carryover rewards that will apply once FC 27 launches.
The new international tournament mode
The headline addition is a standalone 48-team international tournament mode, part of the broader "The World's Game" update, featuring 53 fully licensed, playable national teams -- 41 of which competed together over the summer content cycle. The format mirrors a real international tournament: three group-stage matches per team, with the top two sides in each group advancing along with the eight best third-placed teams. From there it moves into a round of 32 and further knockout rounds up to the final.
Alongside the mode, EA has added new international-themed Manager Live Challenges, authentic stadiums, and new ICONs and Heroes with international flavour available in Player Career mode.
Ultimate Team rewards this season
Season 10 carries the usual Ultimate Team track of Packs, Player Items and Evolution Consumables, plus a promotional 93+ OVR ICON Player Pick that was live as of 18 August. Progress and rewards earned this season are designed to carry over into FC 27 when it releases.
What happens when FC 26 ends
EA has not published an exact date for when FC 26's servers or Ultimate Team squad-building will be retired in favour of FC 27 -- that transition timeline is not yet confirmed, so treat any specific "shutdown date" claims elsewhere with caution until EA states one officially.
When did EA FC 26 Season 10 go live?
Season 10: Pre-Season launched on Thursday, 13 August 2026, at roughly 12:30 PM IST.
What is the international tournament mode in FC 26?
It's a standalone 48-team mode with 53 licensed national teams, running a group stage followed by knockout rounds up to a final, introduced as part of "The World's Game" update.
How many teams are in FC 26's international tournament mode?
The tournament features 48 competing teams drawn from a pool of 53 licensed national sides.
Is Season 10 the last season for FC 26?
Yes, EA has confirmed Season 10 is the final season of FC 26 ahead of FC 27.
How do I get the free ICON player pick in FC 26?
EA made a 93+ OVR ICON Player Pick available as part of ongoing Season 10 promotions; check the in-game Ultimate Team objectives and store for the current offer, as availability can change.