Just in time for the 2026 World Cup, Netflix is adding FIFA to its range of games and wants the living room to be part of it. The plan is a reimagined FIFA soccer simulation game, exclusive to Netflix Games, that you can play on your phone and, in some places, your TV.
If you want to play FIFA on Netflix TV, the basic idea is simple: you start the game on a supported TV and use your phone as a controller. Netflix also says you can play alone or online with friends, touting the experience as quick to learn but fun to stick with.
It’s also important what Netflix isn’t saying yet. No mention was made of the countries included at launch, the TV models that will support it, nor a firm release date beyond “this summer” in conjunction with the 2026 World Cup. Netflix adds that more details will be announced in 2026.
Use your phone as a controller
Netflix tends to have a low-friction setup. It is said that games can run alongside shows and movies on your TV, then your phone takes control. This approach avoids the need for a separate console, but also means the experience depends on which TVs and regions take first place.
Netflix’s language around the game suggests it’s aiming for a broad appeal rather than a niche simulation that takes hours to understand. The company calls it “quick to learn” and “exciting to master,” describing it as something anyone can jump into to play the best games available.
A World Cup-sized playing field
Alain Tascan, president of Netflix Games, calls the 2026 FIFA World Cup “the cultural event of 2026” and says Netflix wants to “take soccer back to its roots” with a game that works “at the push of a button.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino supports the partnership as a step towards greater innovation in football gaming and highlights the biggest consumer benefit: it will be free for Netflix members. According to Netflix, Delphi Interactive is developing and publishing the game.
What to watch before kick-off
At the moment it is an announcement based on a promise. The next update has to answer three practical questions: where does the TV game start first, which TVs are supported and what does the online game look like once real players are on the servers. Netflix says the next wave of information will arrive in 2026. It should then be clear whether this is a standard product for the living room or a slower introduction.
