For decades, Budweiser has delivered some of the most memorable Super Bowl commercials, and in 2026 it did so again with “American Icons”—a heartfelt, patriotic spot blending nostalgia and emotional storytelling.
Airing during a game watched by more than 125 million viewers—featuring a high-energy halftime show by Bad Bunny and a decisive win by the Seattle Seahawks—the ad still stood out as one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
The commercial follows a young Clydesdale foal and a bald eagle growing up side by side. With sweeping rural imagery and stirring music, it shows the horse training with the iconic hitch team while the eagle learns to soar—symbolizing resilience, freedom, and shared American heritage.
The message carries extra weight: it celebrates Budweiser’s 150th anniversary while nodding to America’s upcoming 250th birthday. The Clydesdale represents the brand’s storied past; the eagle reflects national strength and independence.
Avoiding celebrity cameos and heavy product placement, Budweiser focused on pure storytelling. Posted online with the tagline, “For 150 Years, This Bud’s For You,” the 60-second ad quickly drew millions of views and widespread praise for its cinematography and emotional impact.
The final shot—an adult Clydesdale standing proud as the eagle soars overhead—cements the message. In a night filled with spectacle, “American Icons” stood out through sincerity, reinforcing Budweiser’s legacy as a master of Super Bowl storytelling.