Why is J League not in FIFA 23?

As licensing partnership talks between EA Sports and the J.League have broken down, the J1 League will not appear in FIFA 23 or the upcoming EA Sports FC franchise.

A Lucrative Six Year Partnership Expires

The J.League license has been held exclusively by EA Sports since FIFA 17 in 2016, when a landmark six-year deal was announced to bring Japan‘s top division into the game.

Over 17 million copies of FIFA games with the J.League license have been sold worldwide since 2016, indicating strong global interest in Japanese club football.

However, this valuable partnership which helped put J.League on the map has expired ahead of FIFA 23. According to expert analysts on FC Gamers YouTube channels, EA Sports and the J.League were in negotiations but could not agree on renewed terms and fees.

So What Went Wrong in Negotiations?

With EA Sports FC set to launch later this year, EA is likely looking to cut licensing costs where possible to maximize profits from its new series.

Meanwhile the J.League continues to achieve record revenues, attendance figures and global appeal. They may have wanted to increase licensing rates accordingly, but faced resistance from EA.

A redditor who claims inside knowledge of the negotiations also posted that J.League asked for ¥2 billion per year in a new deal. But EA wanted to cap fees at ¥500 million based on lower historical costs.

Without common ground, the deal collapsed – much to the disappointment of fans worldwide.

How Does Losing J.League Impact FIFA 23?

The removal of Japan‘s top club competition is a big loss for FIFA 23. The J.League is Asia‘s most lucrative and popular league. Based on average attendance last season, it outperforms the likes of the Eredivisie, Primeira Liga and MLS.

Losing such a competitive and quality league negatively impacts FIFA 23‘s depth. Japanese clubs like Urawa Red Diamonds or Kawasaki Frontale are strong continental performers that deserved their places alongside Europe and South America‘s giants.

Dedicated fans of J.League teams will also be let down by having their squads replaced by unlicensed fakes. And Japanese player faces, kits and stadium atmospheres all added authenticity that enhanced the experience for Asia-based FIFA gamers.

Could This Prompt a Move to eFootball/Pro Evolution Soccer?

In theory, Konami and eFootball/Pro Evolution Soccer could now swoop in to sign an exclusive deal with the J.League, given the bargaining impasse with EA Sports.

Konami already holds the rights to famous Brazilian club Flamengo along with Italy‘s Serie A and Spain‘s La Liga. So adding Japan‘s J.League would help strengthen eFootball‘s licensing portfolio as it tries to compete against the EA Sports FC behemoth.

However, as one Redditor argued, eFootball‘s disastrous launch has severely damaged its reputation and market position. So while the J.League will likely assess options, EA Sports FC may still be its priority future partner when renewal talks resume.

When Could J.League Return to EA Sports FC Games?

Fans will be desperate to see the return of Japanese club football to EA‘s soccer games in the next few seasons. One Twitter poll showed 92% of FIFA gamers want the J1 League back immediately after the failed negotiations.

If J.FA realize global fans wishes, they must rediscuss with EA Sports to add #JLeague into #EASPORTSFC game since 2024 season. We expect #JLeague in EA SPORTS FC 2024soom! ⚽🎮

• @JapanSoccerGamer72

Hopefully when tensions cool, the two organizations recognize the immense financial and promotional benefits of collaboration. Perhaps compromises around profit-sharing or special J.League broadcast rights for EA Sports FC events could end the impasse.

Nonetheless, people must be patient and understanding towards both sides as complex and lengthy business decisions take time. Only through renewed respect and partnership can we welcome J.League back where it belongs – under the EA Sports banner!