By By Scott Hamilton

Copyright postandcourier

Fish and chips and … football.

American college football, to be more specific.

The Post and Courier has learned that Arizona State and Kansas will play in London next year. It’s part of a multi-year deal for an event called the Union Jack Classic.

That first game is scheduled for Sept. 19, 2026, at iconic Wembley Stadium. Presale for tickets to each school’s alumni and season-ticket holders is expected to begin over the next few weeks.

The game is notable on several fronts, including it being the sport’s first major foray into England. It also continues a concerted effort by Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark to expand his league’s brand globally.

Yormark said during the Big 12’s football media days in July that efforts are underway for conference baseball games to be played next spring in Mexico City. The Baylor women’s basketball team will play Duke of the ACC in Paris this November.

“We’re having conversations with other countries throughout the world that are very interested in bringing the Big 12 to their marketplace,” Yormark said.

A source close to the Union Jack Classic said discussions were held with multiple conferences and teams, but described the Big 12 as “enthusiastic” while organizers continued proposing the concept. That person also said talks are underway to potentially feature Big 12 matchups in the next two Union Jack Classics.

Beyond borders

College football has a history outside of the United States.

Harvard played McGill in Montreal Canada in 1874 and a bowl game was held in Cuba from 1907 to 1946. Bowl games have also been held in the Caribbean.