If you’re still buzzing from the Lionesses’ incredible Euros victory, I’ve got more exciting news: Bend It Like Beckham, the groundbreaking film that transformed women’s football in Britain (and beyond) over 20 years ago, is finally getting a Hollywood sequel.

The news broke via Deadline just before the Euros final, revealing that Gurinder Chadha, director of the original cult classic, is officially working on a follow-up. “I’m thrilled to revisit these beloved characters and continue the story we started, building on the legacy we helped create for women’s football,” she told the outlet while attending the historic match in Basel. She added that the original cast—Parminder Nagra, Keira Knightley, Archie Panjabi, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Juliet Stevenson, Anupam Kher, and others—know about the sequel but are waiting to see the script before committing. “Everything depends on the script and whether the cast likes it. I’m working hard to give every returning character a meaningful arc and strong scenes.”

Despite fans’ enthusiasm and the growing global popularity of women’s football, Chadha admits she waited over 20 years because she didn’t have the right story—until now. “I came up with a really great, super-cool idea just a month ago,” she said. “Women’s football is more competitive, exciting, and global than ever, and I’m honored to be part of it. I’m determined to bring these characters back very soon.”

The turning point came at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where Chadha met Emma Hayes, head coach of the US women’s national team. Their discussions sparked fresh inspiration, and they’re now collaborating on the project. Chadha’s original co-writer, Paul Mayeda Berges, will likely return, with the goal of releasing the sequel by 2027—just in time for the film’s 25th anniversary and the next Women’s World Cup, where the Lionesses will aim to dethrone Spain.

Reflecting on the first film’s impact, Chadha said, “It was about empowering girls to defy societal limits—a message that still resonates today, even with women’s football’s massive growth. The film played a part in that legacy, and I believe there’s more to do. This sequel will be hard-hitting but also full of joy.”

So, to the original cast: please, please come back—and let’s make sure Jess and Jules finally get together this time, wherever they are!