Nofil KhanFantasy FC is one of the most exciting promos of the year because it brings live cards that upgrade based on real-world team and player performances. The promo is confirmed to launch this Friday, February 20, 2026.
If this year follows the pattern of FC 25, we can expect a mix of active players and Fantasy Heroes whose upgrades are tied to specific domestic league matches over the next few weeks.
When does Fantasy FC 26 start?
The Fantasy FC campaign kicks off on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 6 PM GMT / 1 PM ET. This will replace Knockout Royalty in packs.
How do Fantasy FC Upgrades Work?
While EA hasn't released the official FC 26 upgrade path yet, the format has typically been consistent. Based on the official mechanics from FC 25, here is the specific upgrade path we can expect to see return (or be slightly tweaked) for this year.
Based on FC 25, players upgraded based on their team's performance across the next 4 domestic league matches:
- Individual Performance (Attackers/Midfielders): Achieving 1 Goal or Assist granted a second PlayStyle+ and one base PlayStyle.
- Individual Performance (Defenders/GKs/CDMs): Achieving 1 Clean Sheet (playing at least 60 mins) granted a second PlayStyle+ and one base PlayStyle.
- Team Wins: Winning 2 out of 4 league matches granted a +1 OVR Upgrade and a new Role++.
- Team Goals: Scoring 10+ goals across the 4 matches boosted one face stat to 99.
- Discipline: Receiving 0 Red or Yellow Cards across the 4 games (even if they didn't play) granted a +1 OVR Upgrade and either 5* Skills or 5* Weak Foot.
Seasonal Upgrades (End of Season):
- Primary Cup Win: Winning the main domestic cup (e.g., FA Cup) granted a 3rd PlayStyle+ and a 99 face stat boost.
- League Title: Winning the domestic league granted a +1 OVR Upgrade and a 3rd PlayStyle+.
Note: These specific requirements (like the 99 face stat boost) might change for FC 26, but the core concept of real-world performance driving upgrades will remain the same.
Will Fantasy Heroes Return in FC 26?
Yes, Fantasy Heroes are confirmed to be part of the promo.
Unlike current players, Fantasy Heroes are retired, so their upgrades are tied to the performance of a specific former club (e.g., a Premier League Hero might be linked to Manchester City's next 4 games).
How Heroes Upgraded in FC 25:
- 2 Wins in 4 Games: +1 OVR Upgrade.
- 11+ Team Goals: +1 OVR Upgrade.
Seasonal Upgrades (End of Season):
- Primary Cup Win: Winning the main domestic cup (e.g., FA Cup) granted a 3rd PlayStyle+ and a 99 face stat boost.
- League Title: Winning the domestic league granted a +1 OVR Upgrade and a 3rd PlayStyle+.
This means Heroes are entirely dependent on their associated club's form, making them perfect investments if you know a team has an easy schedule coming up.
The Return of the Fantasy FC League?
One of the most intense additions in FC 25 was the Fantasy FC League in Friendlies. This mode offered incredible rewards but was notoriously difficult due to strict squad requirements and a limited number of matches.
Last year, players could unlock exclusive cards like Fantasy FC Maicon by grinding this mode. It was a true test of skill, and if it returns for FC 26, expect high-tier rewards that demand your best like the Knockout Royalty Tournaments.
Stay Tuned for the Official Team
We will update this page with the Official Fantasy FC Team 1 and the confirmed Upgrade Path as soon as they go live on Friday.
Make sure to bookmark this page and check our New Players Feed to see the stats and upgrades the moment they drop in packs!