The event showcases NFL stars and promotes flag football ahead of its Olympic debut.
Category: Sports
Los Angeles is set to host a star-studded event as the Fanatics Flag Football Classic kicks off on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at BMO Stadium. This exciting showcase will feature two teams composed of NFL legends and current stars, including the iconic Tom Brady, who is making his return to the field for the first time since retiring after the 2022 NFL season.
The event, a part of Brady's ongoing efforts to promote flag football in anticipation of its debut at the 2028 Olympics, will feature a Round Robin tournament format. Brady will co-captain the Founders FCC alongside Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Their roster includes notable players like Rob Gronkowski, Alvin Kamara, and Stefon Diggs, among others.
Meanwhile, the Wildcats FCC will be co-captained by Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow. This team includes NFL heavyweights like Saquon Barkley, Davante Adams, and Jalen Ramsey. A third team, the U.S. Men's National Flag Football Team, will also compete, showcasing the best flag football talent in the country.
The game is set to start at 4:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on FOX Sports. For those wishing to stream the event, options include FOX One, Tubi, and Fubo. This high-profile match is not just about the game; it’s an opportunity for fans to witness some of their favorite athletes in action while also learning about flag football.
Brady's participation in the event is significant. As a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, he has taken on various roles since his retirement, including acting as an ambassador for flag football. During a news conference held on March 20, he expressed his excitement about getting back on the field, stating, “Throwing touchdown passes. It’s what we do.” His enthusiasm for the sport is palpable, and it’s clear he aims to inspire the next generation of players.
As the event approaches, Brady has been actively promoting the game, even engaging in a playful feud with WWE superstar Logan Paul. Their rivalry has garnered significant public interest, raising questions about whether they might face off in the future. Brady's promotional efforts included appearances on national TV shows and a flag football draft event in Beverly Hills, where he selected Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty as his first pick.
The Fanatics Flag Football Classic was originally scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, but was relocated to Los Angeles due to the ongoing conflict in the region. BMO Stadium, which can seat up to 22,000 fans, is home to the MLS’s LAFC and the NWSL’s Angel City FC and will also serve as the venue for flag football at the upcoming Olympics.
This exhibition is designed not just for entertainment but also to help talent evaluators assess players for the U.S. national team as they prepare for the Olympic Games. The stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable, as this event could shape the future of flag football in America.
The Founders FCC roster is impressive, featuring stars like:
The Wildcats FCC roster is equally formidable, featuring:
The U.S. Men's National Team will feature players like:
As anticipation builds for the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, fans can expect a thrilling display of athleticism and camaraderie among some of football's biggest names. Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or new to the sport, this event promises to deliver excitement while highlighting the growing popularity of flag football.
With Tom Brady back in action and a lineup of stars ready to compete, the Fanatics Flag Football Classic is set to be a memorable event for all involved.