Riyadh, October 2, 2025 — NFL legend Tom Brady has announced he will come out of retirement to compete in a flag football match at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for March 2026. The event is part of Riyadh Season and aims to further expand the popularity of non-traditional sports in the Kingdom. People.com
What We Know
- Brady, 48, affirmed that he is not returning to professional tackle football: this is a return just for the flag football showcase, which emphasizes skill and agility without contact. People.com
- The classic will feature a number of high-profile former NFL players, including Rob Gronkowski, Odell Beckham Jr., and Tyreek Hill among others — signaling the event will be a major draw. People.com
- The event also aligns with flag football’s growing ambitions: it has been included in the program for the 2028 Olympics, which gives international exposure and credibility to the sport. People.com
Why It Matters for Saudi Sports
- Growing Spotlight on Alternative Sports
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in football, motorsport, and combat sports. Adding a high-profile flag football event helps diversify the sports calendar and attract different audiences. - Global Stars Drawing Global Attention
With Tom Brady and other former NFL stars participating, the event brings international media, fans, and credibility. This can boost Saudi Arabia’s image as a destination for major sporting spectacles of all kinds. - Platform for Local Engagement & Development
Such an event offers opportunities for flag football development locally — coaching clinics, youth participation, and infrastructure building. It could spark interest in a sport that is still relatively niche in the Kingdom.
What to Keep an Eye On
- Confirmation of roster details: which players will be involved, match format, teams etc.
- Ticketing and access: whether locals will be able to attend easily, pricing, and how the experience is packaged (fan zones, entertainment, etc.).
- How the event is promoted domestically: marketing, media coverage, and public reception will determine how well it lands.
- Follow through: Whether Saudi Arabia leverages the event to build sustained engagement in flag football (leagues, competitions, youth programs) rather than it being a one-off spectacle.
Final Word
Tom Brady’s return in flag football for the Riyadh Season is more than a nostalgic moment — it’s a sign of how Saudi Arabia continues to broaden its sporting ambitions. For KSAsportz, this is a story of sport meeting culture and showmanship — and how global stars can help raise the profile of lesser-known athletic formats.