Turning 64 on June 22, Stephen Chow revealed in a 13-second video on social media that *Kung Fu Soccer* is racing toward a July release. When a voice in the video asked about the release date, Chow replied he is working hard to make it by July 10, adding that if he misses that date, it will be July 17, and if that fails, “we’ll make it one day.” The announcement came over a year after filming wrapped in June 2025, following production that began in March 2025. The film is Chow’s first theatrical release since *The New King Of Comedy* (2019), a remake of his classic 1999 film. Written and directed by Chow, *Kung Fu Soccer* is described as a spiritual successor to *Shaolin Soccer* (2001), but centers on a women’s football team that makes a miraculous comeback to win a championship. The cast includes Chinese actress Zhang Xiaofei, Chinese pop idol Lay Zhang, and Chinese actress Dilraba Dilmurat, with cameos by retired Chinese national goalkeeper Zhao Lina and defender Li Jiayue. South Korean actor Song Kang-ho is reportedly guest starring as a referee. According to Hong Kong media reports, the film will face strong box office competition in July from Hollywood releases such as the live-action *Moana*, Christopher Nolan’s *The Odyssey*, and *Spider-Man: Brand New Day*. Singapore-based Encore Films announced it will handle theatrical distribution and related rights for *Kung Fu Soccer* outside mainland China, while Maoyan Entertainment will distribute it within China. Originally slated for a possible Chinese New Year 2026 release, Chow disclosed in February that it would likely come out later in the year.