Creative Soccer Culture

Kiyan Prince Returns To The Pitch In FIFA 21 On Anniversary Of His Death

To mark the 15th anniversary of the tragic death of Kiyan Prince, EA SPORTS have added the promising youngster to the QPR squad in FIFA 21. EA SPORTS developers worked closely with Kiyan’s family, friends, former teammates and coaches to integrate him into the game.

Kiyan Prince was a talented 15-year-old playing for Queens Park Rangers until his life was tragically cut short in 2006 when he was stabbed whilst attempting to break up a fight at his school. To mark the anniversary of his pasing, he's been added to FIFA 21, letting him live out his childhood dream. Working closely with Prince's family, and using a combination of advanced AI technology and photo-real illustration, the game now features a virtually recreated Kiyan as the 30-year-old pro footballer he’d be today.

Imagery from Kiyan’s teens were aged to develop his in-game appearance, while his on-pitch characteristics and style of play were shaped through discussions with his former teammates and coaches.  

Dr Mark Prince OBE, Kiyan’s father, explains: “I want my son to be remembered not for the tragedy of his death but for the triumph of his achievements. Through this campaign my hope is that the world finally gets to glimpse Kiyan’s incredible potential fulfilled. We get to honour his talent. And, hopefully, we can inspire other kids to honour their own talent too - whatever their own strengths might be.

The life of a professional footballer would not be complete without a series of brand endorsements. With the support of adidas, Kiyan will wear the 20/21 adidas COPA boot in FIFA 21 and members of the public will see Kiyan’s likeness across some of the UK’s most iconic billboards – including Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street. Topps are also introducing Kiyan into their Match Attax game, with a special edition collectable card.

In addition to his inclusion in FIFA 21, Kiyan will be officially re-signed by QPR and given the squad number 30, while being listed as a squad member on all match day programmes.

Kiyan Prince will be available in Kick-Off Mode and Career Mode in FIFA 21 from 18th May on PC and from 19th May on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles.

Author
Daniel Jones

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