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EA Sports FC 26 is set to release in September for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC, Steam and Nintendo Switch. Ultimate Team players are already eager to know what’s on the horizon for the game. From new players to exciting packs, each season promises big updates and features.
One of the most exciting details about next year’s game is the introduction of Debut and Champion Icons - evolving cards of legends players that will debut in EA Sports FC 26. Connected to EA’s pre-order bonuses of the Ultimate Edition, these cards bring something new to the table for football fans to commemorate the greats’ careers.
The name might seem a little redundant, but there is a little twist to the system behind these cards. The Debut version shows a legend early in their career, while the Champion version showcases the player at the peak of their career. Here’s everything you need to know about Debut and Champion Icons, including what they are, how to acquire them and when they’ll evolve.
What Are Debut Icons?
Debut Icons feature a football icon at the beginning of their career – the point where they first showed signs of becoming a legend. Debut Icons are available exclusively in the Icon Pack, which you get by pre-ordering the Ultimate Edition of EA FC 26 before August 26, 2025.
Pre-ordering early enough could mean your Icon Pack has a card from our list of 15 legends, including:
- Francesco Totti
- Giorgio Chiellini
- Zlatan Ibrahimović
- Other men's and women's football legends
How Do Champion Icons Work?
Starting November 2025, every Debut Icon you unbox will be upgraded to its Champion Icon form. This card encapsulates the peak of that player’s career - the achievements, the unforgettable performances and the legendary moments.
The upgrade is automatic so you won’t need to complete additional challenges or tasks.
Why It Matters for Ultimate Team Players
The two tier Icon system also provides a great incentive for players to hold on to their cards, as they know a stronger, more valuable version will be available to them later in the season.
For Ultimate Team collectors and competitive players alike, it’s a great way to secure a powerful addition to your squad early on and watch it grow into one of the best cards in the game.
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