Football Manager 26 beta: FM26 Early Access start date and how to get access

Before we can get to the release date, we first have the FM26 beta to look forward to, and with two weeks of Early Access, this year is a big one.

It's the first chance for many players to try out the game before it fully releases, as well as the last chance for developers to iron out any bugs that players encounter.

We've had the chance already to give the game a try with our hands-on FM26 preview, but now it's almost time for the players to get their opportunity.

If you're curious when the FM26 beta starts, as well as how to get access, here's everything you need to know.

Football Manager 26 beta: FM26 Early Access start date and launch time

The FM26 beta officially begins on 23rd October 2025 at 5pm BST.

For those of you in different time zones, here's what time the FM26 beta will start for you:

• US West Coast (PDT) – 9am
• US Mountain (MDT) – 10am
• US Central (CDT) – 11am
• US Eastern (EDT) – 12pm
• Central Europe (CEST) – 6pm
• Japan (JST) – 1am, 24th October
• Australia East Coast (AEDT) – 3am, 24th October
• New Zealand (NZDT) – 5am, 24th October

The entire beta period is slated to run for "approximately 2 weeks" before the official release date, according to a blog post from Sports Interactive.

How to access the FM26 beta

The FM26 beta is only available to players who have already pre-ordered the game.

It should also be noted that the early access period is only available to players on PC and Mac, as pre-orders for the console version of the game have not gone live at the time of writing.

Players who take part in the beta will be able to continue their beta saves into the full game when it updates upon release.

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