Ultimate Team, a favorite mode in football games, is receiving a major overhaul in EA Sports FC 26. The developers are implementing a variety of enhancements targeting numerous facets of this popular game mode.
FUT introduces “Gauntlets,” a new addition offering a series of challenges for skilled players. Explore the in-depth details in the latest developer blog post for a comprehensive look at FUT’s new features.
A key change to FUT in FC 26 is “Competitive Gameplay Tuning,” which gives a distinct feel to matches within the mode, setting it apart from other game modes in FC 26. This mode is primarily designed for FUT, but the game will also have an Authentic Mode for those who prefer a more realistic simulation experience.
Before you dive into the action, you’ll find a revamped FUT Play Menu, designed for easier navigation and access to your favorite modes, along with opportunities to discover new content. The reorganized sections are more intuitive, allowing for swift entry into matches against the AI, friends, or random online opponents.
On the primary FUT screen, you’ll see the new “Live Events” feature, which EA describes as a cornerstone of competitive gameplay. Located in the Event Hub, this section presents a regularly updated selection of themed competitions. Easily track your progress, view available rewards, and review the challenge requirements to determine your eligibility.
FUT will grow in many ways this year. Tournaments return, showcasing the traditional knockout style. According to EA, these will appear during key moments, rather than weekly like Rivals.
The “Gauntlets” are intended to challenge your entire club over a series of consecutive games. Each Gauntlet can contain up to five matches (with three initially available). Crucially, a new squad must be built for each match, and elimination is not possible; you simply continue playing.
FC 26 also brings a refreshed Rivals experience designed to be more rewarding, regardless of your win-loss record. This is made possible through new incentives like Bounties, Duels, and Limited Checkpoints.
EA is also implementing fundamental changes to online matches to protect the competitive environment. FC 26 builds upon an update introduced to FC 25 post-launch, which aimed to reduce frustration when a player missed out on a win due to an opponent quitting during a draw. The new game expands this by including disconnects as potential quits.
In practical terms, this means that in Live Events, Rivals, and Champions, assuming certain conditions are met, you will be awarded a win if your opponent quits or loses connection during a tied match.
Finally, EA has confirmed that goalkeeper evolutions are coming to FC 26, enhanced by Repeatable Evolutions, which offer more flexibility through multiple completions (though not unlimited). Importantly, evolving players will no longer lose their item design, unless the Evolution itself changes the item’s rarity.
In case you missed the news, EA recently revealed everything that players can expect from Manager and Player Career in FC 26, with these modes potentially receiving the biggest updates of the entire game this year.