Secretary of State hails growth of American Football in the UK

The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport today (Thursday 16 November) praised efforts to develop American Football in the United Kingdom.

At Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Questions in the House of Commons, All-Party Parliamentary American Football Group Chair, Peter Bone MP, raised the growth of the sport. “We have had four regular season NFL games in London this year. Next year we are going to have two games in London at Wembley, and two at the magnificent new Tottenham Hotspur ground.

“Can the Secretary of State tell the House what efforts are being made to attract a franchise to London?”

The Secretary of State paid tribute to the work of the Group, and responded “I was at the Ravens versus Jaguars match and we saw an amazing full house at Wembley, of people enjoying American Football here in the United Kingdom.

“We want to continue to promote American Football here, and discussions are ongoing about a full time franchise.”

Speaking afterwards, Parliamentary American Football Group Chair and Member of Parliament for Wellingborough, Peter Bone MP, said “it is fantastic to see the growth of American Football in the United Kingdom, which has undoubtedly been led by the NFL and teams from the USA playing more games in London. The British American Football Association are also to be commended for their efforts to develop the sport at clubs, universities and schools.

“I hope that the Government will continue to support the development of the sport across the UK, but in particular will support the establishment of an NFL franchise in London. This would bring a great deal of economic benefit to the UK, as well as helping to further drive participation.”