Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26 Explained: All Tasks & Rewards
Just when you thought you had the Ultimate Team grind figured out, EA has dropped a brand new challenge into EA FC 26: the Ultimate Gauntlet. You've seen it in the menus, you've heard the buzz, but what exactly is this new mode? Is it another sweaty competition, or is it a fresh and rewarding way to play?
If you're looking for answers, you're in the right place. This is your complete, in-depth guide to the FC 26 Gauntlet mode. We'll break down the fundamental rules, explain why it's a unique test of your club's depth, and provide a full walkthrough of the tasks and Gauntlet rewards for the current event.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a new player, you'll learn everything you need to know to conquer the Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26.
What is The Ultimate Gauntlet Mode?
Before we get into the specifics of the current event, let's break down what the Gauntlet mode actually is. FUT Gauntlet is a run-based game mode within Ultimate Team that tests your squad management and gameplay skills in a completely new way. It's not about having one unbeatable "god squad"; it's about proving the depth of your entire club.
A Run-Based Squad
Unlike the single-elimination, high-stress format of FUT Draft, the Gauntlet mode is a run-based challenge. You play a set number of matches (usually three per "round" or "entry"), and your goal is to rack up as many wins as possible within that run. The key twist? You don't get eliminated after a loss. You keep playing until you've completed all the matches in your run, and your rewards are based on your total number of wins.
No Player Can Be Used Twice
Here's what makes the Ultimate Gauntlet FC26 so unique and strategic: after each match in a run, you cannot reuse any player that was in your 18-man squad for that game—not even the subs.
If you use Mbappé in your first game, he is locked and unavailable for your second and third games of that same run. This forces you to think like a real manager, carefully managing your squad depth and making tough decisions about when to deploy your best players.
Ultimate Gauntlet Makes Your Whole Club Matter
This "one-and-done" rule is a brilliant addition that makes every pack you open more exciting. That 84-rated midfielder who isn't quite good enough for your main Weekend League team? He might be the perfect star for your third Gauntlet squad.
The Gauntlet FC 26 mode encourages you to build a broad, diverse club with a wide range of usable players, rather than just focusing on your top 11. It breathes new life into your collection and makes every player feel valuable.
A Deep Dive into the Current Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26
Now that you understand the rules, let's look at the very first Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26. This initial event is packed with milestones and attractive rewards to get you started.
The Mission: Current Ultimate Gauntlet Tasks & Rewards
The current event is structured around a series of objectives. You get one entry per day, and each entry consists of a three-match round. Here’s a breakdown of all the tasks and the Gauntlet rewards you'll earn for completing them:
| Task | How to Complete | Reward |
| Play 3 | Participate in 3 matches within the Ultimate Gauntlet. | 75+ Rare Gold Player Pack |
| Win 1 | Secure victory in 1 match in a Gauntlet round. | 78+ Rare Gold Player Pack |
| Win 2 | Achieve wins in 2 matches during the Gauntlet round. | Evo Unlock |
| Perfect Round | Win all three matches in a single round. | 84-rated Mohamed Kudus & Evo Unlock |
| Win 3 (Cumulative) | Attain 3 total match victories in the Gauntlet. | 82+ x2 Rare Gold Player Pack |
| Win 5 (Cumulative) | Secure 5 total match victories in the Gauntlet. | Evo Unlock |
| Win 6 (Cumulative) | Achieve 6 total match victories in the Gauntlet. | 84+ x2 Rare Gold Player Pack |
| Group Reward | Complete all of the above objectives. | 85+ Rare Gold Player Pack |
The Grand Prize: The 84-Rated Kudus
The ultimate prize for this first Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26 is an 84-rated Mohamed Kudus Cornerstones item. To get him, you need to achieve a "Perfect Round"—that is, winning all three games in a single daily run. He is a fantastic attacking player for any starter squad and a great target to aim for each day.
Tips for Success in the Ultimate Gauntlet FC26
Winning in the Gauntlet mode requires a different mindset from any other mode in Ultimate Team. Here are some key strategies to help you succeed.
Tip #1: Plan All Your Squads in Advance
Before you even start your first match, go into the squad builder and plan out at least two, preferably three, different teams. Do not put all your best players in your first squad. This is the biggest mistake new players make. A common strategy is to spread your talent around. Your goal for the first match might be just to scrape a win with a decent but not amazing team, while saving your true superstars for the tougher second and third matches of the run.
Tip #2: Build a Deep, Versatile Club
To succeed in the long term, you need a club with depth.
- Don't neglect any position: You can't get by with just one good goalkeeper or two good center-backs. You'll need multiple options for every position on the pitch.
- Value versatile players: Players who can play in multiple positions (like a CM who can also play CDM or a winger who can play ST) are incredibly valuable in the Gauntlet FC 26 mode as they give you more flexibility when building your later squads.
- Keep your high-rated fodder: Those 83 and 84-rated untradeable players you're not using are perfect for your second and third Gauntlet squads. They provide the necessary rating and quality without wasting your elite players.
Tip #3: The "Zero to Hero" Strategy
A popular and effective strategy is to use your weakest of the three planned teams in your first match. In theory, your first opponent should also be at a lower skill level. If you can manage to win that first game with your weaker team, you can then unleash your stronger squads in the later, more difficult matches to secure your "Perfect Round."
Of course, building a deep club with multiple competitive teams takes a lot of resources. If you find your club is a bit thin on players, a quick and safe coin boost can give you the budget to buy the necessary depth to truly compete in the Ultimate Gauntlet.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Gauntlet in FC26 is a fresh, strategic, and highly rewarding new addition to Ultimate Team. It's a true test of your squad management skills and makes every single player in your club feel valuable. It’s a departure from the "god squad" meta and a move towards rewarding players who build deep and diverse clubs.
By understanding the unique rules, planning your squads in advance, and aiming for those key Gauntlet rewards, you can maximize your gains and enjoy a fulfilling new challenge in EA FC 26. Good luck, and may your squads be deep!
FAQ Section
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the FC 26 Gauntlet mode.
When is Gauntlet Mode available?
This game mode is not always active. It is usually released for a limited time, approximately every one to two weeks, with different themes and rewards.
Who are my opponents in FUT Gauntlet?
You will face other players who are also playing the Gauntlet mode, connected to the EA online servers. The matchmaking will try to pair you with opponents of a similar skill level.
What about disconnections?
Unfortunately, disconnections in Gauntlet mode matches will result in a loss, just like in other game modes. Be sure to have a stable internet connection before you start a run, as you’ll lose your progress if you get disconnected.
