In this article, we break down seven major things that won't be in FC 26: from gameplay mechanics to clubs and stadiums: giving you the full picture of what to expect when the game drops.
- Playoffs Removed from Ultimate Team Champions Mode
One of the biggest changes comes to Ultimate Team, EA's most popular mode. In response to player feedback about the grind and required matches, EA has decided to remove playoffs from the Champions mode altogether. This means you no longer have to FIFA 26 Coins battle through playoffs to reach the top tier, a move that aims to reduce burnout and streamline competition. While some players will miss the intensity of playoff matches, many will appreciate the simpler qualification path.
- Agile Dribbling Is Gone
For those who loved intricate ball control, there's some bad news: agile dribbling has been removed from FC 26. EA explained that the mechanic had low usage and made shielding controls inconsistent. The command itself: L2 + R2: along with contextual agile dribbling settings have been completely cut. Players who relied on quick, sharp dribbling moves will need to adapt to more traditional control schemes this year.
- Timed Finishing Has Been Removed
Timed finishing, a feature introduced in recent years that allowed players to add precision to their shots through well-timed button presses, is also out. EA says the system didn't add meaningful skill depth and was hard to balance, especially since it disproportionately rewarded long-range shots and felt inconsistent during pressure moments.
The upside? Removing timed finishing shifts focus toward precision shooting, where timing, aim, power control, and shot selection matter more. This could help create a clearer skill gap between casual and competitive players.
- Certain Play Styles Have Been Cut or Reworked
Several play styles popular with fans have been removed or reworked in FC 26. These include Power Header, Aerial, Travella, and Flare. EA is reworking its mechanics to fit new play styles introduced this year, which means players will need to explore fresh strategies and tactics rather than relying on familiar ones.
- No VR (Virtual Reality) Mode Again
Despite ongoing advances in gaming tech, VR will not be part of FC 26. The recent gameplay trailer and deep dive notes made no mention of VR features. While the game already automates many referee decisions: offsides, fouls, ball crossings: which reduces the need for immersive VR officiating, many fans hoped to see VR cutscenes or first-person experiences on the pitch.
Unfortunately, it looks like VR will have to wait for another year.
- Stadio Olimpico Is Missing
Roma and Lazio fans may be disappointed to hear that the iconic Stadio Olimpico stadium will not be in FC 26. EA's official website lists over 120 authentic stadiums available in the game and mentions the return of Milan's Allianz Arena, but no sign of the Stadio Olimpico.
The stadium currently appears in Konami's eFootball and might be excluded due to licensing agreements: Lazio's exclusive deal with Konami may prevent EA from including their home ground.
- Inter Milan Remains Unlicensed
Finally, Inter Milan will not be officially licensed in FC 26. In FC 25, the club appeared as "Lombardia FC" due to EA FC Coins an exclusive partnership with Konami, which holds the rights for Inter Milan in video games. This exclusivity will continue through July 2024, so expect the club to remain unlicensed and absent in FC 26.
