2K has unveiled Small Axe Studios, a new AAA development team in Vancouver tasked with delivering the publisher’s next major sports franchise. The studio emerged from the 2K Sports Lab project announced in 2023 and is led by Aaron McHardy, who brings 21 years of industry experience after serving as Executive Producer at EA Vancouver on FIFA, Madden, and College Football.

Leadership includes multiple veterans from EA’s sports titles, such as Head of Design Gary Paterson with background on FIFA titles and NBA Live, and Head of Operations Tom Pan with prior work on FIFA and other EA properties. The studio’s site emphasizes an “ego-free culture” focused on coaching and high-quality output, while its motto highlights the idea that focused effort can challenge larger entities.

A promotional image in 2K’s LinkedIn announcement featured what appears to be a mock soccer badge, prompting immediate speculation of a direct competitor to EA Sports FC. The specific sport remains unconfirmed, with the announcement describing only a broad ambition to expand 2K’s sports portfolio beyond its current basketball, wrestling, and golf offerings.