Well, it’s official. Football Manager 26 launches worldwide on November 4th 2025.

Yep. The year-long wait is nearly over. For the first time ever, women’s football will be fully playable in FM. Not a half-baked add-on, not a headline to ignore – the real deal, built into the core game.

Why FM25 Was Skipped

In case you missed the drama: FM25 was supposed to be the big leap -Unity engine, new UI, women’s football debut. But then, SI hit the brakes – delays, features not ready – end result: FM25 was cancelled.

But none of that work was wasted. FM26 gets everything. Which means, fingers crossed, we’re getting a proper full-fat release. No beta-disguised-as-launch energy here.

Related reading: FM25 Cancelled – What It Means for Football Manager

Why the FM26 Release Date Matters

So, what does knowing the official release date really mean for us?

• You can finally start shortlisting clubs for that first-ever women’s save.
• It’s the perfect excuse to wrap up those FM24 marathons.
• Graphics, data, and custom databases can all get moving before launch.

New to women’s football in FM?
Head over to FM26 Women’s Leagues: Where You Can Play for a quick-start guide.

FM26 Release Timeline

What to Expect at Launch

SI haven’t spoiled everything yet, but based on FM25’s planned upgrades and what’s been teased so far, here’s what’s almost certain:

• Women’s football mode: Top divisions and continental competitions fully playable.
• Unity engine upgrade: New animations, lighting, stadiums, and less Lego-hair.
• Bigger platform rollout: PC/Mac, consoles, Game Pass, and likely mobile.

Why This Matters

Skipping FM25 hurt, but it means FM26 will be one of the biggest jumps in the series’ history.

• Women’s football sits side by side with the men’s game.
• The Unity engine refresh brings new life to the match engine and visuals.
• A two-year cycle means a deeper, more complete launch.

It’s not just a new feature. It’s a new way to play Football Manager.

Pre-Orders & Discounts

FM26 will cost £49.99 RRP, but you don’t need to pay that.

Pre-order now for £38.94 at Fanatical (includes Beta)

Note: this is an affiliate link. If you buy through it, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you – it helps fund the spreadsheets and keeps WFFM running.