The FC26 pitch notes confirm the introduction of graduated transfer market access, which caused confusion after screenshots circulated from FC 25 showing bidding limits. Initially, players thought FC 26 would cap trading to eight bid-buy actions per day, but EA clarified that this only applies to new accounts, platform switchers, or users with previous bans.

Returning players on the same platform with accounts in good standing will have full access to the transfer market immediately upon logging in. New players, however, must complete a set of objectives involving Rush, Rivals, and Squad Battles to unlock access. EA stated this change aims to combat bots and coin transfers, ensuring a fairer in-game economy without significantly impacting active traders.

This system triggered errors in FC25, temporarily blocking some players from trading, but EA resolved the issue and confirmed that unrestricted market access remains for most returning users.

Key Gameplay Adjustments in FC 26 Pitch Notes

The first FC26 pitch notes detail three significant gameplay changes based on closed beta feedback:

  • Low Driven Shot Reactions – EA isn’t nerfing low drivens but improving goalkeeper responsiveness. Keepers now react faster and make better animations to counter close-range precision shots, raising the skill gap without reducing shot power.

  • AI Defender Speed Fix – Instead of slowing defenders, EA discovered that ball trapping animations caused attackers to lose momentum. After adjusting animations, attackers now maintain natural sprint speed when receiving through balls, improving one-on-one situations.

  • Attacking AI Positioning – Offensive players now recognize open spaces faster regardless of their role or playstyle pluses, resulting in smarter positioning during build-up plays.

These adjustments will be implemented before early access begins, showing EA’s increased focus on balancing gameplay based on community input.

New Promo Leaks and Road to the Knockouts Return

Alongside the pitch notes, leaked designs suggest the return of Road to the Knockouts (RTTK) as a potential first promo for FC26. The designs cover the Champions League, Women’s Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League, featuring dynamic upgrade paths tied to real-world performances.

However, there’s speculation RTTK might be SBC- and objectives-exclusive this year, similar to Road to the Final cards like Ben White, Ødegaard, and Upamecano in FC25. If true, the rumored World Tour cards could still become FC26’s primary launch promo. EA has yet to confirm the exact promo order, but the early leaks indicate strong live content integration.

Official Ratings, Database Updates, and Future Content

EA also launched the official FC26 ratings database, matching leaked stats from last week. Players like Fede Valverde retain their alternate positions, confirming database accuracy. As launch nears, more cards and promo updates will be added progressively.

The combination of pitch notes, promo leaks, and market changes sets the stage for a busy FC26 early access period. With just eight days until release, traders, casual players, and competitive fans all have reasons to start planning squads and investments early.