What is Baller League? Format and rules, UK start date, plus who is playing in John Terry and KSI’s big tournament

BALLER LEAGUE football is coming to the UK after a blockbuster announcement including KSI and an array of football legends.

The six-a-side spectacular has been a success in Germany – where it was set up by Mats Hummels and Lukas Podolski – and now makes its way to these shores.

YouTuber-turned-boxer KSI has been unveiled as the president of the UK version, with streaming sensation ishowspeed guiding the US.

A stunning advert which mimics the famous Nike Brazil ad from the 1998 World Cup has revealed football legends such as John Terry and Luis Figo will act as managers of teams.

Match of the Day alumni Gary Lineker, Micah Richards and Alan Shearer will also take charge of a team, as will Arsenal Invincibles Freddie Ljungberg, Jens Lehmann and Robert Pires.

It will be Lineker’s first new role since announcing he is leaving MOTD at the end of the season.

Sidemen stars Miniminter and Tobi, plus YouTuber AngryGinge will also manage a team.

Only Ronaldinho and Speed have been announced for the US version so far.

Trials are taking place in London and Manchester for the players who can be recently retired pros, futsal players, free agents or released academy players.

Baller League CEO, Felix Starck said: “Baller League is a brand new way to consume football.

“We’re redefining how the game is played by bringing an exhilarating and authentic approach to football, and one that will appeal to current fans along with future generations.

“Baller League is all about forward-thinking, aggressive, hyper-exciting football. We’re about creating a version of the game that’s impossible to ignore – thrilling, bold and packed with excitement.

What is Baller League?

Baller League is a weekly indoor football tournament – consisting of legendary footballers and YouTube stars managing the teams.

12 teams will play in six-a-side matches, with the top four teams of the league advancing to the final playoff in May to be crowned the champion.

The entertaining format will be similar to Gerard Pique’s Kings League from Spain.

Each match will be live streamed with Chunkz set to host a weekly show, with more broadcasting announcements to follow.

When is Baller League coming to UK?

It has been announced that Baller League is coming to the UK in March 2025.

What are the Baller League rules?

• Matches will be played in a six-a-side format on an smaller indoor pitch.
• Each half set to last 15 minutes.
• Shock rule twists to be introduced for the final three minutes of each half including a three vs three format, long-range goals counting as double, and goalkeepers not allowed to use their hands.
• MLS style one-vs-one penalties to be used.
• 12 teams in the league with the top four going through to the playoffs.
• League set to start in March 2025, with the final four playoff in May to crown the winner.