EA have removed all Diego Maradona items from FIFA 22 owing to the legal disputes going on between third parties surrounding his rights. The Argentinian legend’s rights have been a point of constant legal debate following his passing in late 2020.
And now, due to the complications, FIFA have made his ICON pack unavailable in Packs, SBCs, or Drafts. But, if players already own the legend’s card, they can continue to use him in their team.
Diego Maradona ICON pack removed from FIFA 22
As one of the best-rated central attacking midfielders in the game, Diego Maradona’s suspension has come as a surprise to fans and has got them talking.
When EA signed a deal to use his likeness in the game, it was believed that the rights belonged to his friend and former manager, Stefano Ceci. But, Ceci was unable to prove legally that he owned the rights to Diego Maradona and his brand.
Sattvica, the company of Matias Morla, who was Maradona’s lawyer, has been confirmed as the owner of the rights of the football icon. This means that EA’s deal with Ceci is now null and void. And following EA’s suspension of the ICON pack, it is yet uncertain whether they will be bringing it back for new players or not.
The usability of Maradona’s card in the FUT mode is also unknown as of right now, following the suspension of the rights. Moreover, the rights dispute leaves any involvement of the World Cup winner in future games up in the air.
