EA is hoping to capitalise on the growing popularity of competitive FIFA with a fleshed out line-up of competitive events for the coming season. Most notably the new-look schedule includes an increase from two to six FUT Champions Cups, as well as a new "licensed qualifier system" that's set to feature as many as 15 partner leagues (including the Bundesliga, Eredivisie, La Liga, Ligue 1, and Premier League).
FIFA Online 4 players will also be able to compete in the FIFA eClub World Cup and two EA Champions Cups, as well as a new tournament called the FIFA eNations Cup (more details on this are due in "the coming weeks").
"This past season, we smashed all the previous viewership and engagement records for competitive FIFA, and we are excited to do the same again in the coming season," explained Todd Sitrin, SVP and GM of the EA Competitive Gaming Division, with the press release also proclaiming that there were more than 20 million people from 60 nations involved in last year's Global Series.
EA is looking to open the door to more high-level players via new ways to progress, with the new Global Series Points system rewarding cumulative performances both online and locally. Under this new system, 60 players are set to bag a place at the Global Series Playoffs where the top players can then earn a place at the FIFA eWorld Cup 2019. To sign up head here by October 31, 2018.