How to Play FC 26 Early with EA Play Get 10 hours of early access to EA Sports FC 26 before launch with EA Play

If you can’t wait for the worldwide launch of EA Sports FC 26, the FC 26 Trial is your ticket to getting in early. Through EA Play, subscribers can enjoy the full game for up to 10 hours of playtime starting one week before launch—and any progress you make carries over when you buy the full version.

Here’s everything you need to know about the FC 26 Trial, how to download it, and tips for getting the most out of your limited hours.

⏳ What Is the FC 26 Trial?

Access: EA Play subscribers get the full version of FC 26 for up to 10 hours.
Modes Available: Ultimate Team, Career Mode, and more.
Progression: All stats, achievements, and squad building progress carry over to the full game.

⚠️ Important: The trial timer runs any time the game is open, even if it’s suspended in the background. Always quit the app completely to avoid wasting hours.

📅 FC 26 Trial Release Date

Date: September 19, 2025 (00:00 UK Time)
Duration: Up to 10 hours or until launch day (whichever comes first).
Platforms: Global release, no region-switching required.

This gives competitive players a significant head start in Ultimate Team and Career Mode before the standard edition arrives.

💻 How to Download the FC 26 Trial

1. Confirm you’re signed into your account with an active EA Play subscription. 2. Search for “FC 26” in your platform’s store (PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, or Origin). 3. Select the edition and choose “Trial.” 4. Download and fully install the game before launching.

💡 Tip: Do not start the game until it’s 100% installed, or the timer will start while you’re locked out of full features.

🎟️ EA Play Membership Benefits

An EA Play subscription is required for trial access. Alongside the FC 26 Trial, members also get:

10% off EA digital purchases, including FC Points.
Access to The Play List, EA’s growing library of games.
Monthly in-game rewards exclusive to members.

For FC 26, even a one-month subscription can pay for itself through discounts on the game and FC Points.

🛒 How to Subscribe to EA Play

Head to your PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, or Origin store.
Search for EA Play.
Choose between a monthly or yearly subscription.
Look out for limited-time discounts—for example, a 75% off deal available on September 13, 2025.

Membership renews automatically but can be canceled anytime before the next billing cycle.

🧠 Tips for Maximizing Your 10 Hours

Always quit the game fully when not playing.
Use the companion app or web app to handle trades, SBCs, and squad management outside the trial.
Avoid multitasking with the game open in the background.
Double-check your download is fully complete before launching.

✅ Final Thoughts

The FC 26 Trial is the best way to experience the game early, test new features, and build your Ultimate Team before launch day. With EA Play, you’ll get early access, discounts, and an edge over the competition.

Make the most of your 10 hours and decide for yourself whether to go all in on release day or wait for community feedback.