EA banishes Russia from 2023 FIFA World Cup video game

Publisher follows IOC recommendation to remove national team and clubs from latest football simulator

Electronic Arts (EA) has announced that it will remove the Russian national team and all Russian clubs from its upcoming FIFA 23 video game, in line with recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and follows similar moves by other major sports organizations, such as FIFA and UEFA, which have banned Russian teams from international competitions.

What does this mean for FIFA 23?

The removal of the Russian national team and clubs from FIFA 23 means that they will not be available to select in any of the game's modes, including Career Mode, Ultimate Team, and Pro Clubs.

This will likely come as a disappointment to some players, particularly those who are fans of the Russian national team or Russian clubs.

However, EA has stated that it believes that this is the right decision, and that it is in line with the values of the FIFA brand.

What are the implications of this decision?

The decision to remove the Russian national team and clubs from FIFA 23 is likely to have a number of implications, both for the game itself and for the wider gaming community.

For the game itself, it means that there will be one less national team and a number of fewer clubs available to select in the game's various modes.

This could potentially make the game less appealing to some players, particularly those who are fans of the Russian national team or Russian clubs.

For the wider gaming community, the decision could potentially be seen as a sign of solidarity with Ukraine and its people.

It could also lead to other major sports video game publishers making similar decisions, such as removing Russian teams from their games.

What is the future of Russian football in video games?

The future of Russian football in video games is uncertain.

It is possible that EA will decide to reinstate the Russian national team and clubs in future FIFA games, once the situation between Russia and Ukraine has been resolved.

However, it is also possible that EA will decide to permanently remove Russian teams from its games, or that other major sports video game publishers will follow suit.

Only time will tell what the future holds for Russian football in video games.