Union Jack Classic
US collegiate athletic conference the Big 12 is heading to London’s Wembley Stadium for the first time next year when Arizona State face Kansas.
Confirmed:
- ‘Union Jack Classic’ to take place on 19th September 2026
- Kansas will be the designated home team
Context:
This will be the first time college football is played at Wembley Stadium, although the venue is no stranger to American football, having hosted the National Football League’s (NFL) International Series since 2007. This year, Wembley will stage the Jacksonville Jaguars versus the Los Angeles Rams on 19th October.
The Union Jack Classic will be the third Big 12 football game in two seasons to be played in Europe, which began with Iowa State and Kansas State opening the 2025 season in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic at Ireland’s Aviva Stadium. Texas Christian University will face North Carolina in the same event to open the 2026 campaign.
Next year’s clash between Arizona State and Kansas will also be only the second college football game played in London, following a fixture between Richmond and Boston University in 1988.
Comment:
“I’m thrilled that Big 12 football will be heading to London for the first-ever college football game at Wembley Stadium,” said Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark. “I’ve often said my goal is for the Big 12 to be the most globally relevant conference in college athletics. Expanding our international presence will elevate our brand, create new opportunities for student-athletes, and open the door to meaningful commercial growth for the league.”
Brian Dubiski, chairman and chief executive of Union Jack Classic, added: “We are proud to make history by bringing American college football to London on a global stage. Hosting two elite Big 12 programs at Wembley Stadium positions this matchup as the premier international showcase for our sport, and we look forward to delivering an unforgettable experience for fans and partners worldwide.”
Coming next:
Tickets for next year’s game will go on presale starting 6th October, with general sales beginning on 9th October.
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