The FC 26 community is getting hyped for the ratings reload promo arriving this Friday. This new event has quickly become one of the most talked-about topics in Ultimate Team, mainly because of its unique concept. The idea is simple but powerful: players who deserved different ratings on their base cards will now receive new versions with updated stats. What remains to be seen is whether this promo will feature only upgrades or if EA will also include downgrades, something that would make it truly stand out.
What the FC 26 Ratings Reload promo means
The Ratings Reload promo is EA’s latest attempt to make Ultimate Team feel more connected to real-life football performances. Instead of waiting for a mid-season refresh like in previous FIFA titles, this event will adjust ratings earlier, potentially reshaping how the game feels and plays.
According to leaks shared by several community insiders, the promo will include players who were either underrated or overperforming at the start of the FC 26 cycle. These players will receive reloaded cards reflecting their true form, giving users the chance to rebuild their teams with new, improved versions of familiar faces.
The question still dividing the community is whether ratings reload will only reward upgrades. Many players believe that including downgrades for underperforming stars would add a fresh and realistic layer of unpredictability to Ultimate Team.
Will downgrades be included?
This is the question on everyone’s mind. So far, EA has not confirmed whether the promo will feature players who get lower-rated versions of their cards. But there’s strong speculation that downgrades might be included to keep the event balanced and entertaining.
Community discussions point to examples such as Florian Wirtz, whose 89-rated card has been seen by many as too generous given his real-world form. A downgraded version could make sense in this context. On the other hand, players like Harry Kane and Ousmane Dembélé might receive higher-rated reloaded cards after impressive starts to the season.
The inclusion of downgrades would make ratings reload one of the most unpredictable promos in FC history. It would create new market dynamics and offer players cheaper versions of popular cards, shaking up both gameplay and trading strategies.
Community voting confusion
When EA launched the FC 26 ratings database, the website included a feature allowing fans to vote whether a player was “rated” or “underrated.” The system implied that community feedback could play a role in future promos. However, EA has not clarified whether those votes will actually influence the ratings reload selections.
Many fans believe EA has missed an opportunity here. The tagline “Your club, your call” was used heavily in FC 26 marketing, and involving players directly in rating changes would perfectly match that idea. If ratings reload turns out to be completely predetermined by EA, some in the community may feel disconnected from what could have been a truly interactive promo.
Early leaks and rumored players
The first hints of ratings reload came from social media posts shared by leakers such as FIFA Trading Romania and others. These leaks suggested that players like Dani Olmo, Florian Wirtz, Ousmane Dembélé, and Arda Güler could be part of the first team.
One of the most-discussed cards is Florian Wirtz, with fans debating whether he deserves to keep his high rating. Some argue that his current in-game performance does not match his overall stats, sparking calls for a downgrade. Others believe players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham deserve upgraded cards after dominating their leagues so far.
Leakers have also pointed to EA’s official German account, which teased Olise as a potential inclusion. That alone has fueled more speculation, as his strong performances this season make him a perfect fit for the theme of the promo.
How the promo could impact the FC 26 market
The ratings reload promo could bring major movement to the FC 26 transfer market. Traders are already investing in cards that could be affected by rating changes. If a player is leaked to receive an upgrade, their current versions might rise in value. Conversely, rumors of downgrades could cause panic selling.
Experienced traders recommend watching for official leaks and buying early before prices adjust. Historically, major promos like this tend to spark volatility in both fodder and gold cards, especially when players rush to rebuild their teams with the latest reloaded cards.
Market watchers have already noted steady increases in high-rated fodder cards like Rodri, Kimmich, and Gravenberch as investors prepare for new SBCs tied to the promo. If ratings reload cards are released through objectives or SBC challenges, expect those prices to rise further.
Why the FC community is excited
What makes ratings reload so appealing is that it feels different from the usual upgrade promos. The idea that players could receive fairer ratings based on current form resonates with fans who follow real football closely. It also provides a mid-season-style refresh much earlier than usual, keeping the game feeling new and dynamic.
Players are also hoping EA takes this opportunity to introduce new designs, unique playstyle combinations, and community-influenced upgrades. A truly balanced event with both boosts and nerfs would make Ultimate Team strategy far more interesting and force users to rethink their squads.
What to expect on release day
The first ratings reload team is expected to drop this Friday at 6 PM UK time, featuring around 11 to 14 players. The event may also include an SBC or objective card released alongside the promo team. There is speculation that EA could rotate teams weekly, similar to what they’ve done with previous promos like Cornerstones.
Players should also expect themed upgrade packs and objectives tied to the event. If EA decides to let the community influence future team selections, the next phase of ratings reload could even include fan voting to decide who gets reloaded next.
FAQ about the FC 26 ratings reload promo
What is the ratings reload promo in FC 26?
It’s a new event that updates player ratings to better match their real-world form.
Can players be downgraded in ratings reload?
It’s not confirmed, but leaks suggest EA might include downgrades this time.
Who is expected to be included in ratings reload?
Rumored names include Wirtz, Dembélé, Dani Olmo, Artigula, and Harry Kane.
Does community voting affect the promo?
EA has not confirmed whether fan votes on “rated or underrated” influence selections.
When does ratings reload start?
It’s expected to launch this Friday at 6 PM UK time.
