Story perspectives

Kansas and Arizona State Set for London Football Classic

9/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

Kansas and Arizona State are negotiating to play the first FBS college football game in London on September 19, 2026, at Wembley Stadium.
This game will be part of the "Union Jack Classic," a multi-year agreement for college football in England.
Kansas will reschedule its game against Middle Tennessee, while Arizona State will adjust its game against Hawaii.
The game will be considered a home game for Kansas due to stadium renovations.
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark seeks to boost the conference's global presence with more international games planned.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's first regular-season game outside the U.S. took place in London in 1986, showcasing American football's international appeal. With over 100,000 fans attending London games annually, the NFL's success paved the way for college football's global expansion, exemplified by Kansas and Arizona State's scheduled 2026 game, reflecting the Big 12 Conference's strategy to engage international audiences.

1 of 2

Story summary

Kansas and Arizona State are negotiating to play the first FBS college football game in London on September 19, 2026, at Wembley Stadium.
This game will be part of the "Union Jack Classic," a multi-year agreement for college football in England.
Kansas will reschedule its game against Middle Tennessee, while Arizona State will adjust its game against Hawaii.
The game will be considered a home game for Kansas due to stadium renovations.
Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark seeks to boost the conference's global presence with more international games planned.

1 / 2