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Game World Observer
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The organization's total revenue dropped from $765.7 million in 2019 to $266.5 million in 2020. This decline was primarily caused by the cancellation of major tournaments.
The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has increasingly relied on video game licensing as a critical revenue stream, particularly during periods of global disruption. In 2020, amidst a significant decline in total revenue caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the cancellation of major tournaments, FIFA generated $158.9 million from brand licensing. This figure represented 60% of the organization’s total annual revenue of $266.5 million, exceeding initial projections by 24% as increased lockdown-driven gaming engagement bolstered licensing income.
The landscape of this licensing strategy has shifted significantly in recent years. Following a 30-year partnership, FIFA and Electronic Arts terminated their agreement in 2022, leading to the rebranding of the publisher's flagship title to EA Sports FC. While EA Sports FC has maintained strong market performance, reaching 11.3 million players in its first week, recent industry reports suggest that FIFA is actively seeking to re-enter the gaming market through new partnerships.
Speculation has emerged regarding a potential collaboration between FIFA and 2K Games, a subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive. While official confirmation remains pending, industry reports indicate that 2K may have secured the rights to develop a new officially licensed football title, potentially titled FIFA 2K25. If realized, this move would integrate the FIFA brand into 2K’s established portfolio of sports simulations, marking a strategic pivot for the organization as it attempts to reclaim its presence in the interactive entertainment sector following the dissolution of its long-standing relationship with Electronic Arts.
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