FC 26: 1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick SBC Guide & Review
By Alfie Carrington••3 min read

The highly anticipated "1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick" Squad Building Challenge (SBC) has just landed in FC 26 Ultimate Team, offering managers a chance to bolster their squads with an elite legend. This exciting SBC allows you to earn one of three Base, Thunderstruck, or Unbreakables Icon Player Items, providing a fantastic opportunity to add a game-changing talent to your roster. With a repeatable nature and a generous end date of January 29, 2026, this SBC is a must-consider for every Ultimate Team enthusiast. Dive into our comprehensive guide to see if this challenge is worth your time and resources.
Unlocking Elite Icons: What to Expect
The main draw of this SBC is the promise of an Icon. The "1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick" specifically features Icons from the Base, Thunderstruck, or Unbreakables promotions. This means you could potentially land some of the most sought-after cards in the game. Whether you're chasing a classic legend to anchor your midfield or a dynamic attacker to lead your line, this player pick offers a thrilling gamble with high reward potential. Remember, the pick itself will present you with three different Icon options, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your squad.
SBC Requirements and Solutions
To complete the 1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick SBC, you will need to tackle four individual challenges. Each challenge comes with its own set of requirements, designed to test your squad-building skills. Successfully completing these will not only bring you closer to the grand Icon Player Pick but also reward you with various packs along the way. Be prepared to use a mix of high-rated players and chemistry links to navigate these challenges effectively. Below are the specific requirements for each segment:
86-Rated Squad
Exchange an 86-Rated Squad.
47,250
45,750
Requirements
- •Min. 1 Players Team of the Week
- •Team Rating: Min. 86
87-Rated Squad
Exchange an 87-Rated Squad.
52,000
47,250
Requirements
- •Team Rating: Min. 87
88-Rated Squad
Exchange an 88-Rated Squad.
86,000
77,000
Requirements
- •Team Rating: Min. 88
89-Rated Squad
Exchange an 89-Rated Squad.
179,000
157,000
Requirements
- •Team Rating: Min. 89
Reward Analysis and Value
Beyond the ultimate Icon Player Pick, each completed challenge offers a pack reward. You'll receive a Gold Pack, a Small Prime Electrum Players Pack, a Jumbo Gold Pack, and a Rare Electrum Players Pack. These packs provide additional chances at valuable players and consumables, helping to offset some of the SBC's cost. The total estimated cost to complete this SBC is around 364,250 on console and 327,000 on PC, with an approximate total reward value of 0 including the Icon potential. Given the high-tier Icons potentially available, the overall value could be substantial if you get a favorable pick.
Is the 1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick Worth It?
The 1 of 3 Encore Icon Player Pick SBC presents a fantastic opportunity to acquire a top-tier Icon. While the investment might be significant, the chance to pick from three different Base, Thunderstruck, or Unbreakables Icons greatly reduces the risk compared to a single Icon pack. The repeatability of the SBC also means you can try your luck multiple times if your first attempt isn't ideal. If you have sufficient fodder in your club, or you're willing to invest some coins, this SBC could be a game-changer for your Ultimate Team squad.