This official FIFA competition provides contestants from around the globe with an opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of being a player in a FIFA World Cup. From October 2008 to May 2009, thousands of players from all over the world will compete against each other in EA SPORTS FIFA 09 on PlayStation3 for one of the 32 spots in the Grand Final in May 2009. Players can compete against each other at one of the 19 live qualifier events taking place around the world or via online qualification on the PlayStation Network. The first live qualifier event for FIWC09 will take place from 25-27 October in Auckland, New Zealand. Players who are interested in participating will find all of the information on how to register as well as in-depth reports and stories from the tournament on the official website at www.FIFA.com/FIWC.

This year, it is even easier for players to compete in the world's largest football gaming tournament via in-game registration for the FIFA Interactive World Cup in EA SPORTS FIFA 09 on the PlayStation Network. The winner of the FIFA Interactive World Cup Grand Final will not only become the FIFA Interactive World Player but will also receive an invitation to the FIFA World Player Gala, USD 20,000 and an all-new KIA Soul.