Why Brazil Is Not in FIFA 24： A Licensing and Financial Dispute

Why is Brazil Not in FIFA 24?
The absence of Brazil in FIFA 24 has sparked intense debate among gamers and football fans worldwide. As one of the most iconic and successful national teams in football history, Brazil’s omission from the game has left many scratching their heads. This article delves into the reasons behind this surprising decision and explores the implications for both EA Sports and the gaming community.
The Licensing Agreement Conundrum
The primary reason for Brazil’s absence in FIFA 24 lies in the licensing agreement between the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and EA Sports. Licensing agreements are crucial for EA Sports to include real-world teams, players, and stadiums in their games. These agreements ensure that the intellectual property rights of teams and players are respected, and in return, EA Sports pays a significant amount of money to secure these rights.
However, the negotiations between EA Sports and the CBF reportedly broke down due to disagreements over financial terms and licensing conditions. The CBF, which manages the rights for the Brazilian national team, demanded a higher fee for the use of the team’s name, logo, and player likenesses. EA Sports, on the other hand, was unwilling to meet these demands, leading to a stalemate.
The Financial Aspect
The financial aspect of licensing agreements cannot be overlooked. EA Sports spends millions of dollars each year to secure licensing rights for teams, leagues, and players. While the exact figures for Brazil’s licensing fee are not publicly disclosed, it is widely believed that the CBF’s demands were significantly higher than what EA Sports was willing to pay.
This is not the first time that financial disagreements have led to the exclusion of a major team or league from the FIFA series. For example, Juventus was excluded from FIFA 20 due to a similar licensing dispute, and the team was instead featured as “Piedmonte Calcio” in the game. While this situation was eventually resolved in later editions, it highlights the challenges that EA Sports faces in negotiating with various football associations and clubs.
The Impact on Gamers and the Game’s Authenticity
The exclusion of Brazil from FIFA 24 has been met with disappointment from fans of the series. Brazil is not just any national team; it is a symbol of football excellence, with a rich history of producing some of the greatest players the world has ever seen. The absence of such an iconic team diminishes the game’s authenticity and may deter some fans from purchasing the game.
Moreover, the omission of Brazil affects the game’s overall experience. Players who enjoy playing as Brazil in online and offline modes will have to look for alternative teams, which may not offer the same nostalgic value or playing style. This could also impact the game’s popularity in Brazil, where football is a national obsession, and the absence of the home team may lead to a decline in sales.
The Bigger Picture
The exclusion of Brazil from FIFA 24 is part of a larger trend in the gaming industry, where licensing agreements are becoming increasingly complex and contentious. As the cost of securing licensing rights continues to rise, game developers are faced with tough decisions about which teams and leagues to include. This can lead to situations where some teams are excluded, as we have seen with Brazil in FIFA 24.
Furthermore, the rise of rival football video game franchises, such as Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES), has intensified competition in the market. While EA Sports’ FIFA series has long been the dominant force in football video games, the competition from PES has forced EA to be more strategic about its licensing agreements and overall game development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the absence of Brazil in FIFA 24 is primarily due to unresolved licensing agreements between EA Sports and the CBF. While financial disagreements are the main culprit, the impact on gamers and the game’s authenticity cannot be ignored. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the challenges of securing licensing rights will remain a critical issue for developers like EA Sports.
For now, fans of Brazil will have to wait and see if EA Sports and the CBF can reach a mutually beneficial agreement in the future. Until then, the absence of one of football’s most beloved teams will remain a sore point for many gamers and football enthusiasts alike.