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Budweiser's 'American Icons' Tipped to Be Top Super Bowl Ad in 2026
Anheuser-Busch's nostalgic commercial featuring Clydesdales and an American eagle is poised to win over viewers.
Feb. 1, 2026 at 12:47pm
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Anheuser-Busch is planning a major Super Bowl advertising push in 2026 to mark the 150th anniversary of its Budweiser brand and the 250th birthday of the United States. The centerpiece of its campaign is the 'American Icons' commercial, which features a young Clydesdale and a fledgling eagle in a heartwarming story of unity and national pride. Experts say the ad checks all the boxes for a successful Super Bowl commercial, from emotional storytelling and nostalgic imagery to the inclusion of iconic Budweiser Clydesdales.
Why it matters
The Super Bowl remains the most-watched television event each year, making the highly coveted advertising slots extremely valuable. Anheuser-Busch has long been the top Super Bowl advertiser, and its 'American Icons' spot is poised to resonate with viewers at a time of deep political and cultural divisions in the country. By tapping into themes of patriotism and shared national identity, the ad could provide a rare unifying moment and help boost goodwill for the Budweiser brand.
The details
The 'American Icons' commercial features a young Clydesdale taking a fledgling eagle 'under its wing' and helping the bird learn to fly. The ad culminates with the eagle's wings spread wide across the Clydesdale's back as the pair leap over a fallen tree. The commercial then showcases Budweiser's 150th anniversary branding. Anheuser-Busch is also releasing limited-edition Budweiser cans featuring four different heritage designs as part of the anniversary celebration.
- Budweiser is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026.
- The United States is celebrating its 250th birthday in 2026.
The players
Anheuser-Busch
The brewing company behind the Budweiser, Bud Light, and Michelob Ultra brands, which is the top Super Bowl advertiser.
Todd Allen
Senior vice president of marketing for Budweiser.
Kim Whitler
Professor at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business who has analyzed over 500 Super Bowl commercials.
What they’re saying
“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. This year's spot will leave fans awestruck and proud to enjoy a Budweiser as they celebrate our shared milestone moments.”
— Todd Allen, Senior vice president of marketing for Budweiser
“Commercials that unite people across generations, ethnicities and political persuasions tend to resonate most. And in this moment, when cultural and political divides seem to be pulling Americans further apart—even the Super Bowl's half-time show featuring Bad Bunny stirred up controversy—'American Icons' bridges those gaps.”
— Kim Whitler, Professor, University of Virginia Darden School of Business
What’s next
Anheuser-Busch will release limited-edition Budweiser cans featuring four different heritage designs as part of the brand's 150th anniversary celebration.
The takeaway
Budweiser's 'American Icons' Super Bowl commercial taps into themes of patriotism, nostalgia, and national unity at a time of deep division, positioning it to be a fan favorite that could boost goodwill for the brand beyond immediate sales.
