EA FC 26 Preload Surprises Xbox Fans Early

EA FC 26 is making waves in the gaming community as some Xbox players are able to preload the game weeks before its actual release on September 26, 2025. This early access is unusual, as preloads typically go live just a few days prior to early access availability. The game, which weighs in at a hefty 52.03 GB, has Xbox users buzzing with excitement, while PlayStation players are left in the dark.

The phenomenon appears to stem from a leak that allows Xbox users to download the game early, triggering a mix of surprise and confusion among fans. Screenshots shared by players show that EA FC 26 is already listed in their Xbox game libraries, signaling that they can get a head start on downloading the game.

This unprecedented early availability is particularly interesting given that EA Sports had already announced that early access for Ultimate Edition pre-orders would begin on September 19, 2025, with the full game set to unlock for all users on September 26. The preload leak doesn’t alter these dates, but it does spark questions about how and why Xbox players were able to access the game so soon.

Historically, Xbox has been known for its early game releases, often utilizing the New Zealand time-zone trick to gain an edge. However, downloading the entire game a month ahead of schedule is a new twist that has left many fans scratching their heads. For gamers, this means more time to prepare and download, potentially leading to a smoother launch experience on the actual release day.

For EA, the situation serves as a reminder that even the biggest gaming launches can encounter unexpected surprises. While the early preload can be seen as a bonus for Xbox fans, it also brings to light the complexities and challenges of game distribution in the digital age. As the gaming community watches closely, it remains to be seen how this early preload will impact the overall launch experience for EA FC 26.