Tom Brady to Participate in Flag Football Tournament in Saudi Arabia

In a surprising announcement, Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback and seven-time Super Bowl champion, is set to return to the field—albeit in a different capacity—as he participates in a flag football tournament in Saudi Arabia. This event, named “The Fanatics Flag Football Classic,” will take place on March 21, 2026, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh. The tournament marks a unique collaboration between Brady, Fanatics, Fox Sports, and OBB Media, showcasing a round-robin format that features both current and former NFL players.

A New Chapter for Brady

Brady’s decision to engage in this tournament comes after his retirement from professional football, a move he initially made in February 2023. Despite stepping away from the NFL, Brady’s passion for the game remains evident. “It felt like the perfect time for me to hit the field again and get my competitive juices flowing,” he stated during the announcement. This sentiment reflects his enduring love for football and the competitive spirit that has defined his career.

Star-Studded Lineup

The tournament will host a roster of notable NFL players, including Saquon Barkley, CeeDee Lamb, Christian McCaffrey, Sauce Gardner, Myles Garrett, Brock Bowers, Maxx Crosby, Tyreek Hill, Odell Beckham Jr., and Brady’s former teammate Rob Gronkowski. This diverse group of athletes will bring a mix of talent and experience to the field, making the tournament a highly anticipated event for fans and participants alike.

In addition to these NFL stars, other professional athletes and celebrities from various sports will also be featured, with more names expected to be announced in the coming months. The teams will be coached by prominent figures in the NFL, including Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, and Kyle Shanahan, further enhancing the competitive nature of the tournament.

The Growing Popularity of Flag Football

Flag football has been gaining traction as a popular alternative to traditional tackle football, especially among younger audiences. The sport is recognized for its emphasis on skill and strategy, making it accessible to a broader range of participants. In a significant move for the sport, the International Olympic Committee has approved the inclusion of flag football in the 2028 Summer Olympics, which will be held in Los Angeles. This decision highlights the sport’s increasing global appeal and its potential to connect fans from various backgrounds.

Brady expressed his admiration for flag football, stating, “I’ve always admired the power of flag football, the fastest-growing sport in the world, and how it connects fans of all ages.” His involvement in the tournament aims to further promote the sport and its positive impact on communities worldwide.

NFL’s Support for the Event

The NFL has shown its support for the growing popularity of flag football by allowing players to participate in events like this tournament. In May 2023, league officials voted to permit NFL players to engage in flag football competitions, recognizing the sport’s potential to reach new audiences and promote the game in a non-traditional format. This decision underscores the league’s commitment to expanding football’s reach and embracing new avenues for fan engagement.

Conclusion

Tom Brady’s participation in The Fanatics Flag Football Classic is not just a personal return to the field; it represents a broader movement towards the promotion of flag football as a legitimate and exciting sport. With a star-studded lineup and the support of the NFL, the tournament promises to be a landmark event, showcasing the talents of both current and former players while bringing attention to a sport that is rapidly gaining recognition worldwide.

As the date approaches, fans can look forward to more announcements regarding participating athletes and additional details about the tournament. Brady’s involvement is sure to attract significant attention, and the event is expected to be a celebration of football in its many forms.

Key Facts

– **Event Name**: The Fanatics Flag Football Classic
– **Date**: March 21, 2026
– **Location**: Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
– **Participants**: Tom Brady, Saquon Barkley, CeeDee Lamb, Christian McCaffrey, Sauce Gardner, Myles Garrett, Brock Bowers, Maxx Crosby, Tyreek Hill, Odell Beckham Jr., and Rob Gronkowski
– **Coaches**: Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, Kyle Shanahan
– **Flag Football in Olympics**: Scheduled for inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles
– **NFL Support**: Players permitted to participate in flag football events as of May 2023

Source: www.espn.com