The year of FM26 has arrived after a pause in the game’s yearly, updated launch.
Year after year, untold numbers of aspiring virtual managers map out journeys from the lower leagues to Champions League glory in the well-loved title.
In February, a large segment of occasional gamers and dedicated FM fans expressed their unhappiness when Sports Interactive called off the debut of the 2025 iteration of the game, explaining that they were ‘prioritizing the subsequent edition’ after experiencing multiple setbacks to the original schedule.
“Sports Interactive wishes to announce that, after significant internal deliberation and close consultation with SEGA, we have come to the difficult decision of ceasing development on Football Manager 25 and redirecting our energies to the subsequent installment,” an official statement from SI conveyed.
“To the many fans who pre-ordered FM25, we express our sincere gratitude for your confidence and support – we deeply regret having disappointed you.”
Now, a promotional video for FM26 has been revealed on Football Manager’s various social media accounts, suggesting that the latest iteration of the simulation is nearly here.
The promotional material offers a sneak peek at the refreshed match engine, seemingly featuring the most realistic visuals to date.
However, a disclaimer indicates that while authentic gameplay footage is presented, it isn’t finalized, implying that the finished product will undergo further adjustments.
Regardless, this represents a noteworthy development for the expansive community of FM players and the Football Manager brand’s initial public communication since March.
“The waiting period has been considerable. It’s been impossible to ignore the anticipation,” says well-known commentator Peter Drury in the FM26 unveiling.
“A great deal has been altered, but that sentiment? It’s always been there,” he continues.
🚨 FOOTBALL MANAGER 2026 🚨HERE. WE. GOOOOOOOOOO!!! pic.twitter.com/MTKXn4wKDTAugust 13, 2025
The prominence of Premier League branding in the FM26 presentation alludes to a strengthened relationship between the two entities, as well.
Concerning an official launch date, Football Manager 26 is slated for release later this calendar year.
