It Doesn’t Feel Like an Ad — Budweiser’s 2026 Super Bowl Spot Feels Like a Memory
On Monday (January 26), Budweiser unveiled its long-awaited 2026 Super Bowl commercial. The brand chose to release the spot early, dropping it two weeks ahead of Super Bowl LX, set for February 8, when the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots are scheduled to face off.
In the days leading up to the release, Budweiser steadily built anticipation with a series of teasers. One clip, titled “Stable,” featured the iconic Budweiser Clydesdales watching as an unidentified animal squirmed beneath a bucket. Viewers were invited to speculate about the mystery creature’s identity.
A follow-up teaser titled “Foal” introduced the youngest Clydesdale ever featured in a Budweiser commercial. The short clip sparked even more curiosity, leaving audiences wondering how the foal connected to the unseen animal teased earlier.
The full-length commercial finally revealed the mystery. Set to Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird,” the ad tells the story of a young Clydesdale forming a bond with an eaglet that is unable to fly.
As time passes and the seasons shift, the two animals grow together. The Clydesdale patiently helps the eaglet learn to take flight, with neither giving up despite repeated setbacks and challenges along the way.
One of the most striking moments comes near the end, when the now fully grown Clydesdale leaps over a fallen tree. As sunlight pours in from behind, massive wings appear to spread from its back, creating the illusion of a majestic, Pegasus-like figure.
Moments later, the eaglet—now a fully grown bald eagle—emerges and soars into the sky, completing the powerful visual metaphor.
Officially titled “American Icons,” Budweiser’s 2026 Super Bowl commercial was met with immediate praise. Many viewers labeled it another instant classic, with some calling it one of the strongest ads the brand has ever produced.
Budweiser Executive Shares The Meaning Behind The Brand’s Latest Super Bowl Ad
The title “American Icons” reflects the heart of Budweiser’s 2026 Super Bowl commercial. At its center are two deeply symbolic American animals: the bald eagle and the Budweiser Clydesdale.
The choice of music reinforces that message. “Free Bird” is widely regarded as one of the most iconic rock songs in American history, performed by Lynyrd Skynyrd, a band that originated in Jacksonville, Florida.
The Americana theme was a deliberate decision. In 2026, the United States marks its 250th anniversary, while Budweiser simultaneously celebrates its own milestone—150 years as a brand.
Todd Allen, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Budweiser at Anheuser-Busch, spoke to People about the inspiration behind the commercial.
“As we celebrate Budweiser’s 150th anniversary and America’s 250th birthday, we knew we had to rise to the occasion in a way only Budweiser can,” Allen said. “‘American Icons’ brings our heritage to life through powerful storytelling with the Budweiser Clydesdales and an American Bald Eagle. This year’s spot will leave fans awestruck and proud to enjoy a Budweiser as they celebrate our shared milestone moments.”
You can watch Budweiser’s latest Super Bowl commercial in the video below.
