Electronic Arts is adding the UEFA Women’s Champions League competition to FIFA 23. The game released worldwide earlier this month. However, the American company will include the tournament to their latest installment in early 2023.
EA is doing more than just adding the Women’s Champions League to FIFA 23. The company committed to creating a women’s internship program. EA planned this in conjunction with the female competitions they partner with.
According to SportsPro Media, EA is entering a $11 million sponsorship deal with DAZN as well. The network currently owns global broadcasting rights to air UWCL matches.
EA first introduced women’s teams to the video game series in FIFA 17. The latest edition is the first time, however, represents the first iteration with women’s competitions. This was due to license agreements with England’s Women’s Super League and France’s Division 1 Feminine.
“EA Sports is at the epicenter of global football fandom, and we recognize the role we have in representing and elevating diversity and participation in the sport,” Andrea Hopelain, senior vice president at EA Sports stated.
FIFA 23 to include UEFA Women’s Champions League
Meanwhile, Nadine Kessler, chief of women’s soccer at UEFA joined in the excitement. “We are delighted to see the UEFA Women’s Champions League being integrated into EA Sports FIFA 23,” claimed Kessler.
“It feels like a natural fit for the world’s best women’s club competition to be part of the world’s leading football simulation game,” continued Kessler. “This is another major step in the women’s game and an ideal additional platform for the female athletes contributing to its success.”
FIFA 23 will be the final installment of the series. The company’s licensing agreement with FIFA will soon expire. Moving forward, the gaming company is set to rename the annual video game ‘EA Sports FC.’
EA has even began a new marketing strategy to help offset public displeasure on the issue. They have already entered a sponsorship agreement with the Premier League for the current campaign. EA will also become the majority sponsor of Spain’s LaLiga beginning next season.
PHOTO: IMAGO / ANP
