Rumors suggest that the Max 88 Icon SBC will be the next major promo in EA FC 26. It is expected to be highly impactful and exciting. Recent speculations also predict strong rewards from this promo. Players may be able to secure outstanding icon cards early in the game.
The promo is expected to feature high-tier legend cards. These icons are likely to come with an overall rating of 88.
What’s on the table?
A reliable leak suggests that the Max 88 Icon SBC could include the following names:
- Gareth Bale (RW, Wales) – 88 OVR
- Lilian Thuram (RB, France) – 88 OVR
- Rio Ferdinand (CB, England) – 88 OVR
- Patrick Vieira (CM, France) – 88 OVR
- Franck Ribéry (LM, France) – 88 OVR
- Fernando Torres (ST, Spain) – 87 OVR (slightly below the 88 benchmark)
The others are all 88-rated, in line with the “Max 88” motif, however Torres is the only one to drop to 87. Unlock game-changing talent without blowing your budget: secure top young players on loan and elevate your squad instantly!
Why this promo matters
Arriving with an 88-rated icon can make all the difference for players who are building their Ultimate Team lineups early. These cards can easily dominate since they are typically built with powerful meta qualities like speed, strength, and versatility.
Furthermore, this may be your early-game opportunity if you missed out on top icon SBCs in previous promos (such a “Max 87 Base Hero SBC”). Make your past effort count: the rewards you unlock today carry straight into your Ultimate Team tomorrow.
What to watch & prepare for
- Not yet formally announced. According to the article, nothing has been officially confirmed yet. However, an announcement from Electronic Arts is likely on the way. It is expected to arrive sometime in early November.
- Cost: It is expected that the promo cards would be very costly; estimates are that the SBC will cost at least 500,000 coins. Want the best rewards without the weekend grind? Secure your rank in the Finals and snap up premium packs, coins and player picks.
- Set your team’s depth and coin stock instantly if you plan to target one of these icons. Enhance your tradeable assets and set aside a few strong players to meet SBC criteria.
- Think about the meta impact this SBC could have. The leaked list includes players from several different positions. These positions range from winger and full-back to center-back and central midfield. It also includes a striker option, which means the deal may support a wide variety of play styles.
- The timing is important: SBC supply can increase when the promotion ends, and some rewards may gain value rapidly. Decide whether you’ll go all-in or wait for potential discounts. Build your squad, grab meta players and dominate the market: coin by coin, you’re unlocking your vision.
The Max 88 Icon SBC in EA FC 26 could offer a major chance to sign elite legend cards. This is based on current leaks that appear to be reliable. If the leaks are accurate, the SBC will be very valuable for competitive players.
Serious squad-builders should start preparing immediately. Save your coins, organize your squads, and stay alert for official announcements.
Early purchase of a player like Lilian Thuram, Rio Ferdinand, or Gareth Bale may improve your team’s performance. It could also result in strong trade profit if their value rises later. But keep in mind that until EA confirms, nothing is official, so set your expectations accordingly.

