FIFPRO and KONAMI extend e-Football agreement renewing commitment to innovation and welfare

• FIFPRO extends partnership with KONAMI under multi-year agreement

• KONAMI can feature name, image and likeness of players from nearly 60 markets

• Both parties committed to innovation, accessibility and advancing player rights

FIFPRO is pleased to announce the renewal of a long-term partnership with KONAMI Digital Entertainment Inc., publisher of the eFootball series. Starting from the 2025/26 season, the multi-year agreement reflects a shared commitment to innovation and accessibility, as well as advancing the rights and welfare of football players worldwide.

Under the agreement, announced today in Tokyo at an event to mark the 30th anniversary of the eFootball series, KONAMI will have access to the world’s most comprehensive library of player name, image, and likeness rights covering nearly 60 markets. This ensures a diverse range of professional footballers is authentically represented in the eFootball series, and in return these players benefit from valuable support through their national unions.

The enduring collaboration between KONAMI and FIFPRO, spanning over two decades, will be further strengthened during the multi-year agreement by joint initiatives aimed at elevating KONAMI’s position as a premier destination for esports.

A free-to-play product, eFootball has more than 900 million downloads to date, delivering a truly global and inclusive football gaming experience. As announced today in Tokyo, it will be the competition title for the FIFAe World Cup 2025.

Fans worldwide can compete across console and mobile platforms for a variety of prizes, culminating with a December final in Saudi Arabia.

Al Buset, FIFPRO Chief Commercial Officer, said: "As we celebrate our 60th anniversary in championing the rights of players worldwide, this multi-year renewal with KONAMI comes at a landmark moment in the history of FIFPRO.

"Our enduring partnership with KONAMI has been a cornerstone in advancing our mission to empower and protect professional football players globally. We are proud to continue collaborating with one of the world’s leading developers of virtual football entertainment."

Koji Kobayashi, Executive Officer of KONAMI Digital Entertainment Co. Ltd., said: "It is with great pride that we renew our partnership with FIFPRO at such a significant juncture. As FIFPRO celebrates its 60th anniversary of advocating for the rights of professional football players, KONAMI also marks the 30th anniversary since releasing its first football-themed game. This partnership is based on mutual respect, shared vision, and a commitment to innovation, and we have built a powerful and enduring relationship with FIFPRO over the years.

"Today, we are excited to continue this journey together, further strengthening our collaboration with FIFPRO and its member unions. Our joint efforts have not only contributed to the evolution of football gaming but have also helped advance the global support system for players everywhere and we look forward to continuing this relationship for many years to come."

For more information on the licenses available in eFootball, head HERE.