The Chicago Bears have returned to London in 2026, strengthening their commitment to growing American football participation across the capital through an expanded NFL Girls Flag programme.
Returning to the city as part of the organisation’s wider UK initiative, the Bears are continuing to work with schools across London to create more opportunities for girls aged 12 and above to get involved in flag football, the non-contact format of the game, in an inclusive and supportive environment.
The London league begins on 12 May at Kennington Park, with 10 schools and over 120 girls set to participate in 2026, an increase from nine teams last year. The programme is focused on helping girls, particularly those at risk of dropping out, to stay engaged in sport through accessible and positive experiences.
Now entering its fourth year in the UK, the Chicago Bears’ NFL Girls Flag programme continues to make American football more accessible, inclusive and engaging for young people. The focus of the programme’s growth in London is to create more opportunities for girls from all backgrounds and abilities to participate in sport.
Flag football, the non-contact format of the game, is empowering a new generation of athletes worldwide. The Chicago Bears’ NFL Girls Flag programme gives participants the chance to design and execute plays while building essential life skills such as communication, teamwork, resilience and confidence.
The 2026 schedule is part of a wider programme taking place across London, Manchester and the Midlands, starting on the 8th May, before culminating in the National Finals in Loughborough on June 19th. Since launching in 2022, the Bears have continued to connect with young people across the UK as part of the organisation’s long-term commitment to growing the game internationally through the NFL’s Global Markets Program.
On June 2nd and June 9th, the girls will also be joined by NFL Global Flag Football ambassador and Team GB captain Phoebe Schecter.
Phoebe Schecter said: “I’m so pleased to continue working with the Chicago Bears on such an incredible programme as we return to London once again. The energy from the girls, schools and communities continues to grow every year and it’s exciting to see how much enthusiasm there is for flag football across the capital.
“Flag is such a unique sport because it’s accessible, exciting and above all fun. We want the girls involved to not only develop new skills and confidence, but also enjoy being active, build friendships and stay engaged in sport.”
The Chicago Bears’ work in the UK reflects the organisation’s long-standing community values in Illinois, prioritising access, inclusion and equity in youth sport. All programmes are designed to be free to access, helping break down barriers to participation while growing the Bears family across the UK.
Tanesha Wade, Chicago Bears EVP of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Chief Impact Officer, said: “As we enter another exciting year in the UK, we are proud to continue growing our work in London and creating more opportunities for young girls across the capital.
“Our Girls Flag leagues are about far more than football. They are about creating opportunities, building confidence and helping young people remain engaged in sport through positive and inclusive experiences.”
