Union Jack Classic: College Football Comes to Wembley Stadium in September 2026
College football is set to make its debut at Wembley Stadium in September 2026 with the inaugural 'Union Jack Classic' series. This event will feature multiple games with different teams in the upcoming years. The NFL's 'International Series' paved the way for this initiative, starting in 2007 with games played in the UK, Germany, Brazil, and most recently, Ireland.
The Aer Lingus College Football Classic has been a consistent presence in Ireland's Aviva Stadium over the past four seasons. The Union Jack Classic will mark the first college football game at Wembley Stadium and only the second in London since 1988. Brian Dubiski, Chairman and CEO of Union Jack Classic, expressed pride in bringing American College Football to a global stage, while Brett Yormark, Big 12 Commissioner, highlighted the significance of expanding the conference's international presence.
The Arizona State Sun Devils and Kansas Jayhawks, both part of the 'Big 12' conference, will face off in the Union Jack Classic. Arizona State boasts a strong football program with notable NFL draftees, while Kansas, one of the oldest college football programs, has produced legendary players like Gale Sayers and Aqib Talib. The game at Wembley Stadium will provide a unique experience for fans and student-athletes, showcasing college football on an international platform.
Kansas Director of Athletics Travis Goff emphasized the historic opportunity for the Jayhawks to play at Wembley Stadium, highlighting the growth of the football program. Arizona State Athletics Director Graham Rossini echoed the sentiment, praising the Big 12's initiative to globalize college football. The Union Jack Classic aims to provide a memorable experience for fans and players, expanding the reach of college sports beyond American borders.
Don't miss the Minnesota Vikings take on the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, live on Sky Sports NFL this Sunday from 2.30pm.