The event features NFL stars and aims to promote flag football before its Olympic debut.
Category: Sports
Los Angeles is set to host a star-studded event this Saturday, March 21, 2026, with the Fanatics Flag Football Classic taking center stage at BMO Stadium. This exhibition promises to be a major highlight for fans of the sport, especially with the return of NFL legend Tom Brady to the field for the first time since his retirement following the 2022 season.
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic will kick off at 4 p.m. ET and will feature two 12-man teams composed of both past and present NFL stars, along with the U.S. men’s national flag football team. The event is part of a broader initiative to promote flag football, which is set to make its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Brady, who is now a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, will co-captain the Founders team alongside Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Founders team boasts an impressive roster, including fellow NFL stars like Rob Gronkowski, Alvin Kamara, Stefon Diggs, and Patrick Peterson, among others. Brady expressed his excitement about returning to the field, stating, "Throwing touchdown passes. It’s what we do.”
On the opposing side, the Wildcats team, co-captained by Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow, features players such as Saquon Barkley, Davante Adams, and Jalen Ramsey. The competitive spirit will be palpable, especially with the inclusion of celebrities like WWE superstar Logan Paul and YouTube sensation IShowSpeed, who are also slated to participate.
With a total of three teams competing—the Founders, the Wildcats, and the U.S. national team—the format will include a Round Robin tournament. Each game will consist of two 15-minute halves played on a 50 x 25-yard field. The U.S. national team will showcase its talent, featuring current members of the squad that recently claimed the IFAF Flag Football World Championship.
Originally, the Fanatics Flag Football Classic was scheduled to take place at Kingdom Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Due to the current geopolitical tensions and travel advisories stemming from the Iran war, the event was relocated to Los Angeles, which can seat up to 22,000 fans and is home to both the MLS's Los Angeles Football Club and the NWSL's Angel City FC.
Brady's involvement goes beyond simply playing; he has been instrumental behind the scenes, promoting the event and flag football itself. He participated recently at a news conference, attended by NFL owners including his former boss, Robert Kraft, who was present to support his legendary quarterback. Kraft and Brady, who together have won six Super Bowl titles, posed for pictures, marking a nostalgic reunion for the two.
Brady's face will be prominently displayed on a massive banner at BMO Stadium, signaling his status not just among players but also within the league's hierarchy. His role extends to being a key promoter for flag football's inclusion at the Olympics, hoping to inspire a new generation of athletes.
Fans can catch the action live on FOX Sports, with additional streaming options available on FOX One, Tubi, and Fubo. The event is expected to draw a wide audience, not only due to the star power of its participants but also because of the unique opportunity to see how traditional football stars adapt to the flag version of the game.
Brady's return to the field has sparked considerable excitement among fans and players alike. He has managed to stay fit and active since his retirement, mentioning, "I lift all the weights. I run. I throw a little bit. I’m throwing more... I don’t think that feeling gets old.” His enthusiasm is palpable, and many are curious to see how he performs alongside some of the NFL's brightest talents.
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of football culture, a showcase of athletic prowess, and a step toward elevating flag football on a global stage. With the Olympics on the horizon, this event serves a dual purpose: entertaining fans and providing a platform for evaluators to scout talent for the U.S. national team.
With all eyes on Los Angeles, the Fanatics Flag Football Classic is poised to be a memorable event that highlights the fun and competitive spirit of flag football, bringing together athletes from various backgrounds for a common love of the game. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just tuning into this unique event, there’s something for everyone.
Mark your calendars and prepare for an afternoon filled with excitement, camaraderie, and, of course, some thrilling football action!