Sports Interactive and Sega have announced the cancellation of Football Manager 25 across all platforms. This marks the first time the long-running series has skipped a year since its inception in 2004.

The developers had initially touted FM25 as a significant technical and visual leap, aimed at establishing a new era for the franchise. However, the transition to the Unity game engine presented unforeseen challenges, particularly impacting the player experience and user interface. These issues, despite extensive internal review and multiple delays, ultimately led to the cancellation.

The decision, announced alongside Sega Sammy Holdings’ financial results (which include a writedown of FM25-related costs), followed "extensive internal discussion and careful consideration." Sega has confirmed that no job losses are associated with the cancellation.

There will be no FM24 update incorporating 2024/25 season data; resources are fully dedicated to FM26. Discussions are underway with platform holders and licensors regarding potential extensions of FM24 agreements on subscription services like Game Pass. Pre-orders for FM25 will be refunded.

Sports Interactive acknowledged the disappointment this news will cause, particularly given the previous delays. They emphasized their commitment to delivering high-quality games and explained that releasing FM25 in its incomplete state would not meet their standards. The focus is now entirely on Football Manager 26, slated for release in November. The developers expressed their gratitude for fans' patience and support.