Brady’s Comeback: From NFL Glory to Flag Football Stage

Tom Brady, the seven-time Super Bowl champion, has confirmed his participation in the 2026 Riyadh Flag Football Invitational, marking his first competitive appearance since retiring in 2023. The event, scheduled for March 21, 2026, will feature a round-robin tournament with three teams coached by NFL masterminds Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, and Kyle Shanahan.

Star-Studded Lineup & Olympic Momentum

• Current NFL stars: Saquon Barkley (Philadelphia Eagles), Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins)
• Free agents: Odell Beckham Jr., Rob Gronkowski (Brady’s former Patriots teammate)
• Olympic connection: Event builds momentum for flag football’s debut at LA 2028 Olympics

Brady, now a Birmingham City FC minority owner, emphasized the sport’s accessibility:

"Flag football breaks barriers – it’s fast, inclusive, and perfect for showcasing athleticism globally. This event bridges NFL legacy with Olympic dreams."

Why Flag Football? Key Growth Metrics

• 20 million players worldwide (NFL data)
• 31 nations competed in 2024 Flag Football World Championships
• 75 national federations under International Federation of American Football

Event Format & Broader Impact

Structure:

• Three teams compete in 10-minute games
• Non-contact rules: Defenders remove waist flags instead of tackling

Cultural significance:

• First major NFL-affiliated event in Saudi Arabia
• Part of Riyadh’s push to host 2034 World Cup

Organizers promise additional cross-industry participants from entertainment and sports, with tickets going on sale October 1, 2026.