College football is set to make a splash in the UK, with games scheduled at Wembley Stadium in London for the next three years, potentially extending to a fourth. This exciting development marks a significant return to the sport's roots in the UK, as the Arizona State Sun Devils and Kansas Jayhawks prepare to take the field in the Union Jack Classic series. The game, set for September 19, will be the first college football match in England since 1988, with Kansas as the home team. The match will be a showcase of talent, with Arizona State's recent success in the College Football Playoff and Kansas' determination to turn their fortunes around after consecutive losing seasons. The game is expected to attract a minimum of 10,000-15,000 alumni from each university, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The organizers aim to build on the international appeal of American football, with Wembley Stadium's history of hosting NFL games and the Jacksonville Jaguars' deal to play home games there. However, the Union Jack Classic also faces challenges, as college football's global presence is less established than the NFL's. Despite this, the event promises to grow the reputation of the universities involved, with Arizona State's expansion plans for ASU London in 2026. The game's organizers are confident in its potential, with Thomas Henesy, Union Jack Classic co-founder and COO, stating, 'We’re very confident (of selling out Wembley),' and Brian Dubiski, CEO, emphasizing the importance of growing the sport and its international reach. The Union Jack Classic's ambition to host games in other European markets, such as Germany, further highlights the potential for college football to expand its global presence and engage new audiences.
