top of page

BAFA Announce Landmark Partnership with Union Jack Classic Ahead of First-Ever College Football Game at Wembley

  • Writer: Andy Taylor
    Andy Taylor
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read
Union Jack Classic

The British American Football Association (BAFA) today unveiled a major new partnership with the Union Jack Classic, the organisation bringing the first-ever American college football game to Wembley Stadium, London in 2026.


The inaugural Union Jack Classic, where the Arizona State Sun Devils will face the Kansas Jayhawks on 19 September 2026 in a Big 12 Conference clash. The event promises a full U.S. college gameday experience - tailgating, pep rallies, marching bands, etc.


The only previous college football game held in England was in 1988 when Richmond beat Boston College 20-17 at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.


Union Jack Classic Becomes BAFA's 2026 Competitions Title Partner

As part of the agreement, the Union Jack Classic will become the National Competitions Title Partner for BAFA's 2026 season, covering all contact and flag formats. Presumably, this means we will see format names such as "Union Jack Classic Mixed Adult Contact" and "Union Jack Classic Women's Flag Football League".


According to BAFA, the partnership is designed to support the governing body's plans to expand and strengthen the sport across the UK. This includes development initiatives for coaches, officials and volunteers, as well as improved access to resources through the British American football community.


BAFA confirmed that members will also receive access to "exclusive experiences and engagement opportunities" linked to the build-up to the 2026 Wembley fixture.


BAFA CEO Chad Ehlertsen said the partnership aligns the sport's grassroots ambitions with a major international event.


"Working in partnership with the Union Jack Classic allows us to align grassroots development with a world-class international event," he said.

"We are thrilled to play a part in this historic moment for American football in the UK".


Union Jack Classic Targets Legacy Impact

Union Jack Classic COO Thomas Hensey said the agreement reflects the organisation's intention to contribute to the sport's long-term growth in the UK.


"American football continues to grow here in the UK, and partnering with BAFA marks an exciting step," he said.

"Supporting the grassroots game makes us very proud, and we want to help accelerate participation across the country."


The Union Jack Classic is led by a group of sports marketing executives with longstanding experience in promoting American football internationally. Its leadership includes Brian Dubiski and Thomas Hensey of Rhino Marketing, along with Rob Yowell of Gemini Sports - individuals previously involved in the World League of American Football and the NFL International Series at Wembley.


BAFA stated that the agreement supports the goals outlined in its "Together to Inspire" strategy, published in 2025 following the inclusion of flag football in the LA 2028 Olympic Games.


The governing body currently oversees more than 150 affiliated clubs across the UK.


Tickets for the Union Jack Classic are already available.


This event is already shaping up to be a significant moment in British American football history.


Full Press Release below:


bottom of page