Last updated on November 27th, 2025 at 06:29 pm
The Thunderstruck promo is shaping up to be one of the biggest moments of FC 26 Ultimate Team’s Black Friday cycle. It marks the transition into the most explosive period of the year, where special cards, lightning-round packs, and rapid market swings all hit at once. While EA Sports has not shared any official details yet, early leaks have already given players a strong sense of who might headline the first squad.

What Is the Thunderstruck Promo?
Thunderstruck is FC 26’s main Black Friday event inside Ultimate Team. It typically brings:
- High-tier special cards for current players
- Icons or legendary items with boosted stats
- A surge of limited-time store packs
- SBCs and Objectives tied to the promo theme
If EA follows its usual pattern, Thunderstruck Team 1 will replace the ongoing FC Pro Live content and kick off several days of intense pack openings and price shifts. For many players, this is when the season’s real squad-building momentum begins.
FC 26 Thunderstruck Team 1 Release Countdown
EA has not officially announced the timing yet, but Team 1 is expected to go live on:
November 28, 2025
Expected global release window:
- 10:00 AM PT
- 12:00 PM CT
- 1:00 PM ET
- 6:00 PM GMT
- 7:00 PM CET
Leaked FC 26 Thunderstruck Team 1 Players
Reliable community leakers have already circulated a list of names expected to appear in Team 1. None of these are official, but the early lineup is strong and covers multiple playstyles, positions, and eras of football.
Leaked Player List (So Far):
- Roberto Carlos
- Lotta Schelin
- Raphinha
- Paolo Maldini
- Franz Beckenbauer
- Fernando Torres
- Jamal Musiala
- Ryan Gravenberch
- Bastian Schweinsteiger
- Jude Bellingham
- Ronald Koeman
- Pedro Neto
- Alexia Putellas
- Dumornay
- Nemanja Vidić
- David Beckham
- Rodri
- Theo Hernández
- Eusebio
- Pacho
- Diego Maradona
- Franck Ribéry
More names are expected as we get closer to launch, and a portion of the squad is likely to drop through SBCs or Objectives rather than packs.
What Makes These Thunderstruck Players So Important
Below is a high-level look at what each rumored item could bring to the mode:
- Jamal Musiala – Attacking Playmaker
- A Thunderstruck version of Musiala could offer elite dribbling, quick turning, and strong CAM/LW versatility — perfect for players who enjoy technical attacking football.
- Alexia Putellas – Premium Midfield Controller
- Putellas already excels as a deep-lying playmaker. A promo upgrade could push her into top-tier territory for passing, vision, and box-to-box efficiency.
- Diego Maradona – Iconic Flair
- Any Maradona item is instantly desirable. Expect exceptional dribbling, tight control, and sharp finishing. He may become one of the rarest pulls of the entire event.
- Eusebio – Meta-Defining Forward
- Eusebio cards usually dominate early-game squads with high pace, responsive shooting, and elite positioning. Another strong candidate for the promo’s most coveted card.
- Jude Bellingham – All-Around Midfield Engine
- Bellingham’s physicality, stamina, and transitional play could make him one of the most complete midfielders in this year’s game — especially with Thunderstruck boosts.
- Pedro Neto – Explosive Wide Threat
- Neto’s speed and ball control often exceed expectations. A Thunderstruck upgrade could turn him into an outstanding mid-tier winger with strong links.
- Paolo Maldini – Defensive Anchor
- Maldini cards are known for elite defensive IQ, strong tackling animations, and dependable pace. A Thunderstruck version could be an instant end-game center-back.
- Franck Ribéry – Technical Dribbler
- Ribéry’s skill-move ability and sharp agility make him a favorite among creative attackers. His upgraded version may lean toward a flair-driven, highly responsive playstyle.
How to Prepare for Thunderstruck Team 1
A promo this large can reshape the market and your squad very quickly. Here are steps to get ahead before the cards arrive:
1. Save SBC Fodder
A wave of player SBCs is expected, potentially including Icons. Keep high-rated cards ready instead of buying them at inflated Black Friday prices.
2. Decide Whether to Save Packs
Opening packs once Thunderstruck cards are in the pool gives you the highest chance at promo pulls. If you enjoy pack opening during hype moments, saving might be ideal.
3. Target Weak Spots in Your Team
This promo may produce elite:
- Playmakers (Musiala, Ribéry)
- Midfield anchors (Bellingham, Putellas)
- Defenders (Maldini)
- Attack icons (Maradona, Eusebio)
Plan your coins and investments around the positions you want to upgrade first.
4. Expect Market Volatility
Black Friday brings:
- Price drops
- Rapid shifts caused by lightning rounds
- SBC-driven spikes
Being patient during the early promo hours usually leads to better prices.
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Thunderstruck Team 1 is positioned to become one of the biggest releases of the FC 26 Ultimate Team cycle. With leaked icons, fan-favorite attackers, and high-profile midfielders all rumored to appear, the first squad could immediately shake up the meta. Once EA confirms the official lineup and timings, players can expect a fast-moving market and an intense weekend of pack openings, trading, and squad rebuilding. Play Now!
