After 22 years, the Israeli national team is back in the popular FC soccer video game franchise (formerly FIFA), thanks to the success of the Israeli eSoccer team, which qualified for the European Championship finals to be held on July 7. This achievement secured Israel's inclusion in the latest update of FC 24.
The Israeli gamers will wear the national team’s official uniforms in the upcoming tournament, following a request from the Israel Football Association (IFA) to EA Sports, which agreed. The addition of the team to such a prominent and successful game, especially after 22 years, is a significant statement from EA.
Last year, the Israeli eSoccer team qualified for the World Championship held in Saudi Arabia, using Israeli symbols throughout the tournament – an unprecedented event in the Islamic country. The team was heavily guarded during the event.
IFA Chairman Shino Zuaretz said, "Our goal is to reach a younger audience and create a connection with the national team players. I am very proud that the Football Association has brought such news to the Israeli audience after 22 years of absence from the game. In the current climate, this achievement is even more significant. Last year, our eSoccer team broke a major barrier by reaching the World Championship in Saudi Arabia, and this year their achievements have brought more great news to the Israeli public.
The Israeli national anthem playing at eSports World Championship in Saudi Arabia, 2023
(Video: Israel Football Association)
"Zvika Kosman, the IFA's gaming director, worked tirelessly for our inclusion in the new version and deserves praise. I wish the players and the coach success in the upcoming Euro."
The current edition of the successful soccer simulation was released for the first time without the FIFA name after the partnership agreement between the sport's international governing body and EA Sports ended.