Fantasy Premier League (FPL) is more than just a game; it’s a strategic battle where millions of football enthusiasts worldwide test their managerial skills. Success in FPL requires careful planning, a deep understanding of football, and the ability to make the right decisions at the right time.
One of the most powerful tools in an FPL manager’s arsenal is the wildcard. But what exactly is a wildcard in FPL, and how can it be used effectively?
What is Wildcard in Fantasy Premier League?
In the world of FPL, a wildcard is a chip that allows you to make as many transfers as you like up until the Gameweek deadline. This means you can completely overhaul your team, replacing underperforming players with those who are in form, without any restrictions.
While there are other chips in FPL, such as the Free Hit, Bench Boost, and Triple Captain, the wildcard stands out due to its unique capabilities. Unlike the Free Hit chip, which only allows unlimited transfers for a single Gameweek before reverting your team back to its original state, the wildcard makes permanent changes to your team.
How does Wildcard work in FPL?
Here are Wildcard features that help you understand how wildcard works in Fantasy Premier League.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Usage | The Wildcard can be used twice a season. |
| Availability | The first wildcard is available from the start of the season The second wildcard is available in the second half of the season. |
| Function | The Wildcard allows you to make unlimited free transfers throughout a Gameweek. |
| Effect on Points | Playing a wildcard will remove any points deductions from transfers already made in the same Gameweek. |
| Activation | The Wildcard is played when confirming transfers that cost points. |
| Cancellation | Once played, the Wildcard can’t be canceled. |
| Impact on Saved Transfers | When playing a wildcard, any saved free transfers will be lost. You will be back to the usual 1 free transfer the following Gameweek. |
Our Latest FPL Wildcard team
Looking for a wildcard team inspiration? You can find our latest wildcard team on this page we regularly update: FPL Wildcard Team for Current Gameweek.
The Benefits of Using a Wildcard and Why to Use this Chip
The wildcard in FPL is a powerful tool that, when used correctly, can provide a significant advantage. The primary benefit of the wildcard is the ability to make unlimited transfers in a Gameweek without incurring any points deductions. Normally, FPL managers are given one free transfer per Gameweek, and any additional transfers result in a points deduction. However, when you play your wildcard, you can make as many transfers as you want in that gameweek without worrying about these deductions.
This flexibility allows you to react to changes in player form, injuries, suspensions, or even to take advantage of upcoming fixtures. It can be a game-changer, especially in situations where multiple players in your team are underperforming or when you want to capitalize on players who have favorable fixtures.
When to Use a Wildcard in FPL?
Strategic use of the wildcard is crucial. Some managers prefer to use their first Wildcard early in the season to correct their initial team selection, while others save it for later for example to fixture swing. The key is to use it when it can provide the maximum benefit, taking into account your team’s current situation and upcoming fixtures.
Usually, the best time for using the second Wildcard is around double gameweeks so it will allow you to bring in players who will have the most fixtures during the upcoming schedule.
Read more about the optimal timing of using a wildcard in 2023/24 season in our separate article: When is the best time to use Wildcard in FPL?
When does the first FPL wildcard expire in the 2023/24 season?
The first wildcard expires at the GW20 deadline, which is scheduled on Saturday 30 December 2023. So the last gameweek when you can use your first wildcard is Gameweek 20 (before the GW20 deadline).
Read more: When does the first wildcard expire in FPL?
When do you get a second wildcard in FPL 2023/24?
The second wildcard becomes available after the GW20 deadline, which is scheduled on Saturday 30 December 2023. So the first gameweek when you can use your second wildcard in FPL is Gameweek 21 (before the GW21 deadline).
Read more: When do you get the Second Wildcard in FPL?
How to activate Wildcard in Fantasy Premier League?
Not sure how you can activate your wildcard? Visit our step-by-step guide here: How to activate Wildcard in FPL?
How to use Wildcard effectively?
What should you consider when activating your wildcard? We have a separate article for that as well. You can check it out here: Essential Tips for using a Wildcard in FPL.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a wildcard and a free hit?
A wildcard allows you to make unlimited transfers that are permanent, while a free hit allows for unlimited transfers for one Gameweek only, after which your team reverts back to its original state. Find more differences in the article: Wildcard vs. Free Hit
Are wildcard changes permanent or temporary?
The changes made with a wildcard are permanent. Once the Gameweek deadline passes, your team will remain as you set it during the wildcard period. Then you classically get one free transfer each gameweek to make changes to your FPL team. Read more about this in our article: Are Wildcard transfers permanent or temporary?
How many wildcards do you get in FPL?
You are awarded two wildcards per FPL season. The first wildcard is available to play in the first half of the season, while the second wildcard is available to play in the second half of the season. We have a dedicated article for this topic as well: How many Wildcard do you get in FPL?
Can you cancel the Wildcard in FPL?
No, once you confirm your transfers when playing Wildcard, it cannot be canceled or revoked. Read more in our article: Can you cancel Wildcard in Fantasy Premier League?
How long does Wildcard last in FPL?
The Wildcard lasts for one Gameweek. Once you activate it, you can make unlimited free transfers for that Gameweek up until the next deadline.
Are there 3 wildcards in FPL?
No, there are only two Wildcards available in a season in FPL.
Do you lose points playing Wildcard in FPL?
No, you do not lose points for playing a Wildcard. It allows you to make unlimited free transfers in a Gameweek without any points deduction.
What happens to transfers after the wildcard? Do you get 2 free transfers after the wildcard?
After using a Wildcard, any saved free transfers will be lost. You will be back to the usual 1 free transfer the following Gameweek.
How many transfers can you make with Wildcard?
With a Wildcard, you can make unlimited transfers within the Gameweek it is activated, up until the next deadline.
Does Wildcard cancel hits?
Yes, playing a Wildcard removes any points deductions from transfers already made in the same Gameweek. Hence, it effectively cancels “hits” or points penalties for extra transfers.
Conclusion
The wildcard is a powerful chip in FPL, offering the flexibility to make unlimited transfers and the potential to drastically improve your team. However, it’s not just about having the wildcard; it’s about how and when you use it. With careful planning and strategic use, the wildcard can be the difference between a good and a great FPL season. So, plan wisely, play strategically, and may your wildcard bring you many points!
Further Fantasy Premier League resources
- How to play Fantasy Premier League?
- Books that will help you to improve your FPL skills
- Official FPL Rules
