The FM26 Beta is the moment most of us wait for every year – it’s like Christmas morning for spreadsheet nerds, but a couple of weeks early. It’s also a common point of confusion:
- When does it drop?
- How do you get it?
- Is pre-ordering the only way?
That’s why WFFM has put together this FAQ.
Everything we know about the FM26 Beta and pre-orders in one place.
FM26 Beta & Pre-Order Quick FAQ
- FM26 Beta release date: Expected late October 2026 (around 2 weeks before full release).
- How to get the Beta: Pre-order FM26 digitally (Steam, Epic, SEGA partners).
- Platforms: PC & Mac via Steam and Epic Games Store.
- Does it include women’s football? Yes, the Beta will launch with women’s football fully integrated.
When Will the FM26 Beta Be Released?
- Historically, the Beta arrives around two weeks before the full game.
- If FM26 follows tradition, expect the Beta in late October 2026.
- This will be confirmed by Sports Interactive closer to launch.
Check our FM26 Release Date Window post for more context.
How Do I Get the FM26 Beta?
- The Beta is a pre-order bonus.
- If you pre-order FM26 digitally (Steam, Epic, Microsoft Store, or official SEGA/partner retailers), you’ll unlock the Beta automatically.
- You’ll download it from the same platform you purchase on.
Where Can I Pre-Order FM26?
- FM26 pre-orders will open on Steam, Epic, and SEGA’s official store.
- Trusted retailers like Fanatical, CDKeys, and other SEGA partners usually offer discounts.
- Pre-orders from partner retailers still include Beta access, just make sure it’s an authorised seller.
What Platforms Will Have the Beta?
- PC/Mac via Steam and Epic Games Store are guaranteed.
- Xbox Game Pass pre-loads typically don’t include Beta access.
- Console editions (Xbox/PlayStation/Switch) usually launch full versions only.
What’s Different About the FM26 Beta?
- The Beta is a fully playable version of the game, just with some polish missing.
- Your saves from the Beta carry over into the full release.
- With FM26 introducing women’s football, this Beta could be one of the most important ever, it’s our first chance to try it out.
Related:
FM26 Match Engine First Look
Pre-Order Discounts & Affiliate Links
I’ll be adding trusted pre-order discount links here as soon as they’re live. These will usually come from official SEGA partners like Fanatical, CDKeys, or other authorised retailers – which means you’ll get the FM26 Beta included and save a bit compared to the standard price.
Just a quick note: these links are affiliate links. That means if you buy FM26 through one of them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps keep this site running and lets me keep building women’s football resources for FM26.
If you want to support WFFM while pre-ordering, grabbing your copy through these links is a brilliant way to do it.
