Controller problems in games on PC aren't anything new, they happen from time to time and are thankfully really easy to fix, provided you know where to look. So follow along as we walk you through quite a long list of fixes for controllers not working in EA Sports FC 26. You can use any of the steps found in this guide to fix controller issues in other games as the fixes are pretty much universal! So let's get started!

Takeaways:

  1. What is causing FC26 controller problems and how do you fix them?
  2. Learn how to fix lag and stuttering in FC26 that is cuased by controllers.

How to Fix EA SPORTS FC 26 Controller Not Working on PC

Before you start any of the more indepth fixes found below check these basic ones first:

  • USB and Bluetooth Fixes: If the controller drops out in Windows as well, the issue is likely hardware or driver related. Fix Windows stability before testing FC 26 again.
  • Try a Different USB Port: Avoid USB hubs and front panel ports. Use a direct motherboard USB port instead.
  • Switch Connection Type: Test Bluetooth and USB separately to isolate wireless instability.
  • Remove Extra Paired Controllers: In Bluetooth settings, remove unused controllers and keep only one active device.

Exit DS4Windows and Other Virtual Controller Tools

DS4Windows and similar tools create a virtual controller. If FC 26 detects both the physical and virtual device, it may select the wrong one or stop responding entirely. Fully close DS4Windows and exit it from the system tray. Also disable other tools such as reWASD, InputMapper, HidHide, or any virtual gamepad drivers. Relaunch FC 26 and test again.

Use a Single Input Layer: Choose one method only: Steam Input, DS4Windows, or native controller support. Multiple layers almost always cause conflicts.

Update PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller Firmware

To update a PS5 DualSense controller on PC, you'll need to use Sony’s official firmware updater.

  • Download and install the Firmware Updater for DualSense wireless controllers on your Windows PC from Sony’s official website.
  • Open the application after installation.
  • Connect your DualSense controller to the PC using a USB cable.
  • Follow the on screen instructions to download and install the firmware update.
  • Confirm any prompts to install additional required software.

How to Fix EA SPORTS FC 26 Controller Not Working on PC

  • Do not disconnect the controller or shut down your PC during the update process.
  • After the update finishes, unpair the controller from Windows Bluetooth settings, then pair it again. This makes sure a clean connection using the updated firmware and helps prevent input issues in FC 26 and other games.

Firmware updates for DualSense controllers are not frequent, usually less than once per year. It is still a good idea to check every few months or whenever the controller starts behaving inconsistently.

Update Xbox Wireless Controller Firmware

If you're using an Xbox controller on Windows things are a lot easier.

  • Install the Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store.
  • Open the app and connect your Xbox controller using a USB cable.
  • If an update is available, you will see a prompt in the app.
  • Select the prompt and allow the update to complete. This process can take several minutes.
  • Once the update is finished, close the app. Go to Windows Settings, open Bluetooth and Devices, remove the Xbox controller from the device list, then restart your PC.
  • Reconnect the controller after rebooting.

Fix EA SPORTS FC 26 Controller Not Working on PC

Verify Game Files

Corrupted or missing game files can prevent controller components from initializing correctly. Verifying the installation restores damaged files automatically.

Steam

  • Open Steam, go to Library, right click EA SPORTS FC 26, select Properties, open Installed Files, and choose Verify integrity of game files.

EA App

  • Open the EA app, go to Library, select EA SPORTS FC 26, open Manage, and choose Repair.
  • Restart your PC after the process finishes, then test the game again.

Disable Steam Input (Steam Version Only)

Steam Input can intercept or translate controller signals. FC 26 may receive duplicated inputs or switch devices mid match.

Only apply this fix if you launch FC 26 through Steam.

  • Open Steam and go to Library.
  • Right click EA SPORTS FC 26 and select Properties.
  • Open the Controller tab.
  • Set Steam Input to Disabled or Forced Off.
  • Restart the game and test again.

If the controller stops working entirely after disabling Steam Input, re enable it and instead disable other controller layers so only one input system is active.

Disable Overlays (All Others)

Overlays hook into the game and can break input focus, causing freezes, delays, or forced keyboard and mouse switching.

Disable the following if enabled:

  • Steam Overlay
  • EA Overlay
  • Discord Overlay
  • GeForce Experience or Radeon Overlay
  • Xbox Game Bar

Restart the game after disabling overlays.