Former Konami Tech Chief Joins Delphi to Oversee Netflix FIFA Game

Delphi Interactive has appointed veteran game technologist Julien Merceron as chief technology officer (CTO) to oversee development of its upcoming FIFA-branded football game, set to launch exclusively on Netflix in time for the FIFA World Cup 2026 this summer.

Merceron joins the California-based studio as it works on a new FIFA football simulation following the brand’s separation from Electronic Arts (EA) Sports. The title will stream directly to televisions via Netflix Games, with players using mobile phones as controllers. It will be included as part of a standard Netflix subscription.

Merceron brings more than 30 years of experience across major studios, including Konami, Bandai Namco, Square Enix, Ubisoft, and IO Interactive. 

At Konami, he served as worldwide technology director and oversaw development of the Fox Engine, best known for powering Metal Gear Solid V. The engine was also used for Pro Evolution Soccer and eFootball between 2013 and 2020, giving Merceron experience in shaping technology for football games during a key period for the franchise.

Reimagining FIFA for Netflix and the World Cup 2026

In his new role, Merceron will lead Delphi’s technical and development strategy as the studio rebuilds FIFA games from the ground up. Development is being carried out in partnership with Los Angeles-based Refactor Games, the studio behind Football Simulator, currently operating out of Delphi’s LA headquarters. The project is being developed by a small, senior-led team focused on core systems and long-term scalability.

“Delphi and Refactor share a very specific approach as we reimagine FIFA Games for the future,” Merceron said in a statement. He pointed to a development structure built around compact teams and a clear creative vision.

Delphi partner and executive producer Theodor Tang-Peronard said Merceron’s background aligns closely with the studio’s goals. He added that Merceron’s experience helps keep the game accessible while still offering depth for longtime football fans.

Timed around the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Netflix-exclusive release marks a significant shift for the FIFA games brand. It places the franchise within a subscription-based, cloud-streamed model designed to reach a broader global audience during one of football’s biggest cultural events.