Electronic Arts Inc. announced an update to its FIFA 23 video game that will bring National Women’s Soccer League teams to the virtual pitch for the first time in franchise history. All 12 teams will be added on March 15 within the game’s Kick Off, Tournament Mode, Head to Head Season, Co-op Seasons and Online Friendlies.
“The NWSL’s integration into EA SPORTS FIFA 23 is a monumental milestone for the league, the players and millions of football fans around the world as we continue pushing boundaries for the women’s game,” NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman said in the press release. “The athletes that call the NWSL home are some of the best in the world and we’re excited for the opportunity to further showcase their talent through this unique gaming experience. We can’t wait for fans to begin playing and we look forward to continuing this celebration of the players and the league when we kick off our 11th season on March 25.”
In addition to NWSL teams, the update will also include four NWSL stadiums along with authentic kits, starheads, trophies and celebrations.
“The players are the beating heart of every fan experience, fueling collective excitement through their passion, dedication, and perseverance,” NWSLPA Executive Director Meghann Burke said in the release. “Today is a historic day for both our players and fans. This is a thrilling time for women’s football, and we’re looking forward to collaborating with EA SPORTS to champion the sport and create new opportunities for fans around the world to engage with these incredibly talented players.”
The announcement comes a few months after EA Sports added the knockout stage of the UWCL to FIFA 23 with clubs like Juventus Women, Real Madrid Femenino, Chelsea Women, Manchester City Women, Olympique Lyonnais Féminin, Paris Saint-Germain Féminine and more. FIFA 23 is also the first edition of the game to feature a female player on a global cover with Sam Kerr starring opposite Kylian Mbappé.
“We’re passionate about EA SPORTS continuing to be a changemaker for women’s football, and our partnership with both the NWSL and the NWSLPA is another step we’re taking as an organization to advance the sport,” SVP of Brand at EA SPORTS Andrea Hopelain said in the release. “We’re committed to being champions for the future of football and bringing unrivaled authenticity to millions of football fans across the globe.”
FIFA 23 is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, PS4, and Xbox One. Click here for the official trailer.