The Ultimate Team of EA FC 26 will bring important adjustments to its competitive modes, and Division Rivals is one of the most changed. This mode, which is considered essential for progressing in the game and earning good weekly rewards, has received updates aimed at balancing the experience between casual and competitive players.
Next, check out the main differences between what was seen in EA FC 25 and what will be available in EA FC 26.
Fewer Points for Better Rewards
In EA FC 25, players needed to reach 45 weekly points to unlock the most valuable rewards in each division. This system required a lot of dedication and often forced those with less free time to play numerous matches in a short period.
In EA FC 26, this goal has been adjusted to 30 weekly points, making the process more accessible and less exhausting. This change is seen as a way to democratise access to the best rewards, without compromising fun due to the need for excessive grinding.
Inclusion of Contracts and New Objectives
One of the most notable updates in Rivals for 2026 is the inclusion of Contracts. They act as small objectives that players can complete throughout the season, earning extra rewards for each goal achieved.
These additional challenges range from winning streaks to specific conditions during matches. As a result, each week offers different incentives, encouraging varied strategies and greater engagement.
Bonus for Winning Streaks
Another highlight is the consecutive win bonuses. By achieving two or more consecutive victories, players accelerate their progress, double their points, and see this information displayed to their opponent in real-time.
This feature not only motivates performance but also adds a psychological element to matches, as the opponent becomes aware that they are facing someone in good form.
Limited Checkpoints
The new system of limited checkpoints is a response to player criticism in EA FC 25, where many found themselves stuck in divisions well above their skill level, unable to adapt.
Now, checkpoints function as safety points, but in a controlled manner. This prevents players from being stuck in higher divisions without merit, ensuring that progression is fairer and more aligned with individual performance.
The Return of Relegation
In Rivals, considered the most “traditional” and “classic” mode for online matches, the main updates include the inclusion of Contracts, which grant rewards for small objectives throughout the seasons, bonuses for winning streaks (two or more wins accelerate your progress, double your points, and are displayed in real-time to the opponent), and also limited checkpoints, which will prevent players from being stuck in higher and more challenging divisions if they reach them and cannot maintain performance.
In other words, relegation is back! The game will record not only your victories but also your defeats, and if it becomes evident that you “do not belong” in a certain division, you will be relegated.
According to Richard Waltz, the mode director, player dissatisfaction in FC 25 with the absence of relegation was decisive for this change. Now, if for any reason you reach a level far above your own, it will be possible to return to a more balanced and, of course, enjoyable experience.
A Fairer and More Dynamic Mode
In summary, Division Rivals in EA FC 26 brings profound changes compared to EA FC 25:
Reduction of weekly points required from 45 to 30.
Inclusion of Contracts with small objectives and rewards.
Consecutive win bonuses that accelerate progress.
Limited checkpoints that prevent stagnation in higher divisions.
The return of relegation, ensuring a more balanced experience.
These changes show that EA listened to community feedback and sought to create a more dynamic, competitive, and accessible mode. The result is an experience that promises to please both casual players, who will have easier progression, and the more dedicated ones, who will continue to face challenges and rewards that match their efforts.