Everything You Need to Know About Super Bowl 2026
The Super Bowl is the annual league championship game of the National Football League (NFL) in the United States. It holds a significant place in American sports culture, serving as the culminating event of every NFL season since 1966 when it replaced the NFL Championship Game.
The Super Bowl isn’t just a game, it’s an unrivaled cultural phenomenon that unites millions of fans around the globe. Super Bowl LX, set for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, promises to deliver yet another unforgettable chapter in NFL history. This year, the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots are set to face off in a matchup that has captured attention across the football world. As the culmination of the 2025 NFL season, this championship game blends fierce competition, high-stakes drama, and world-class entertainment, creating an experience that transcends sports.
Millions of viewers around the world eagerly anticipate the Super Bowl each year. With an average audience of 115.1 million viewers both through the FOX network and digital streaming, this grand spectacle has grown to become one of the most-watched sporting events in America and a highly anticipated television extravaganza.
From the electric atmosphere inside Levi’s Stadium to the global attention surrounding Super Bowl week, Super Bowl LX is shaping up to be one of the defining sporting moments of the year.
Who will rise to claim the Vince Lombardi Trophy? Stay tuned for all the action, surprises, and excitement that only the Super Bowl can deliver!
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Why Does the Super Bowl Use Roman Numerals?
One topic that doesn’t often get much attention but likely sparks curiosity is the use of Roman numerals.
Roman numerals have been a hallmark of Super Bowl branding since 1971. This decision not only adds historical gravitas but also eliminates confusion over the calendar year of the game versus the NFL season it concludes. For example, Super Bowl LX marks the conclusion of the 2025 season, despite taking place in 2026.
Adding prestige to the game
Roman numerals give the Super Bowl a sense of timelessness and consistency. The elegant numerals appear prominently in logos, on merchandise, and in marketing campaigns, ensuring the event is instantly recognizable.
Quick guide to understand Roman numerals
Roman numerals are pretty nifty. You arrange them in a certain order to make numbers:
I = 1
V = 5
X = 10
L = 50
C = 100
D = 500
Example: So, if you want to write 58, you put together 50 (L) and 5 (V) and 1 (I) and 1 (I) and 1 (I) – it becomes LVIII.
Fun Fact
Super Bowl 50 (played in 2016) is the only game not labeled with Roman numerals. Instead, it used the number 50 because “Super Bowl L” didn’t look appealing in marketing material. The league returned to Roman numerals the following year.
When is the Super Bowl 2026, and What Time Does It Start?
Super Bowl LX is set to take place on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Mark your calendars for an action-packed day of football, entertainment, and unforgettable moments that fans around the globe eagerly await every year.
Since 2022, the Super Bowl has been held on the second Sunday of February, a change prompted by the NFL’s expansion of the regular season to 17 games.
What time does the Super Bowl kick off? The official kickoff time is at 6:30 PM Eastern Time (ET), but local times vary depending on your location:
| Sunday | |
| Pacific Time (PT) | 3:30 PM |
| Mountain Time (MST) | 4:30 PM |
| Central Time (CT) | 5:30 PM |
| Eastern Time (ET) | 6:30 PM |
| GMT London (UTC+0) | 11:30 PM |
| Monday | |
| Central European Time (UTC+1) | 12:30 AM |
| Eastern European Time (UTC+1) | 01:30 AM |
| AEDT Sydney | 8:30 AM |
Who is Playing in Super Bowl LX?
The journey to Super Bowl LX has been filled with excitement, with standout performances and unforgettable playoff moments leading to an epic showdown. On February 8, 2026, the Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
The Seahawks, led by quarterback Sam Darnold and a strong cast of playmakers on both sides of the ball, arrive after a powerful NFC playoff run that showcased balance, resilience, and timely execution. The Patriots, guided by rising star Drake Maye and supported by a stout defense under head coach Mike Vrabel, clinched their spot through a hard-fought AFC Championship performance.
This clash between two storied teams, each navigating challenges and delivering key performances throughout the postseason, sets the stage for a championship game with everything on the line. With legacy, momentum, and the Lombardi Trophy at stake, Super Bowl LX promises to be a fitting finale to the season.
Fun Fact
80% of teams that score first in a playoff game go on to win, making every opening drive critical. The average margin of victory in this year’s postseason has been just 7.2 points, highlighting the competitive balance.
Where is the Super Bowl 2026 taking place?
Super Bowl LX will be held on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Known as one of the premier modern stadiums in the NFL, Levi’s Stadium previously hosted Super Bowl 50 and now returns as the stage for another championship showdown.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the stadium offers fans not only a world-class football experience but also access to the wider San Francisco Bay Area, known for its technology innovation, diverse food scene, and iconic West Coast culture.
This venue has already been the site of a memorable Super Bowl, including Super Bowl 50, which celebrated 50 years of Super Bowl history and featured a matchup between the Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers. Hosting Super Bowl LX marks the second time Levi’s Stadium has welcomed the NFL’s biggest game.
Fun Fact
Levi’s Stadium is designed with sustainability in mind and is widely recognized for its environmentally conscious features, including energy-efficient systems and green building initiatives.
As one of the most advanced stadiums in the league, it’s no surprise the Super Bowl 2026 location is generating excitement. Fans from around the world are eager to experience not just the game but also the innovation, atmosphere, and energy of the Bay Area. Whether you’re taking in the scenery before kickoff or celebrating after the final whistle, Super Bowl LX promises to be a memorable event both on and off the field.
Previous Super Bowl winners
As we gear up for Super Bowl LX, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the rich history of this iconic championship. Year after year, the Super Bowl delivers unforgettable moments and extraordinary performances, adding to its legacy as one of the greatest sporting events.
Now, let’s turn our attention to the list of past Super Bowl winners, each team etching their name in the annals of football history with triumphant victories.
How is the Super Bowl location chosen?
The Super Bowl isn’t just about the game—it’s a massive event that requires careful planning and a perfect host city. The selection process has evolved over the years, with strict requirements ensuring an unforgettable experience for fans and significant economic benefits for the host.
- Selection Process Evolution:
- Previously, cities competed by submitting extensive proposals (over 600 pages) to the NFL.
- Since 2018, the NFL directly invites cities to submit proposals, with final approval by the 32 team owners.
- Key Requirements for Hosting:
- Stadium Criteria:
- Must be in an NFL city with at least 70,000 seats (temporary seats allowed with NFL approval).
- Needs proper media and electrical setups.
- For colder climates (below 50°F/10°C on game day), a roof or special permission is required.
- Parking and Fan Experiences:
- 35,000 parking spots within a mile of the stadium.
- A “Gameday Experience” fan area near the stadium.
- Space for the NFL Experience, requiring 850,000 sq. ft. indoors or 1,000,000 sq. ft. outdoors.
- Hotels:
- Must accommodate 35% of the stadium’s capacity within an hour’s drive.
- Stadium Criteria:
- Economic and Cultural Impact:
- The championship game generates significant income for both the league and the city, boosting tourism, hospitality, and local businesses.
- In 2024, Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas hosted the big game for the first time, marking a historic moment for the entertainment capital.
The host city selection is a meticulous process to ensure a world-class experience for fans and financial success for stakeholders. Every year, cities across the country vie for the opportunity to host the Super Bowl, knowing the immense prestige and economic impact it brings.
How many people watch the Super Bowl?
The Super Bowl is not just a major event in American sports; it is a global sensation. It consistently draws more than 70,000 fans to live events, with record-breaking TV audiences worldwide. In 2015, it set an astounding average TV audience record of 114.4 million viewers. While viewership has slightly dipped since then, the 2023 Super Bowl saw a resurgence with 113 million viewers in the United States.
Last year, the Super Bowl took place at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome, with a seating capacity of approximately 73,000 and expanding possibility up to 76,000. But the Super Bowl’s appeal extends far beyond U.S. borders. It is broadcast in over 190 countries and more than 30 languages, captivating audiences worldwide. Following record-breaking trends, tens of millions of viewers outside the U.S. tuned in, marking a continued global surge of interest.
In 2024 Mexico led the way with over 20 million viewers, followed by Canada with 17.3 million and 11.9 million for the halftime show. Brazil, China, and other countries are increasingly embracing American football, with China experiencing an astonishing 42 percent growth in viewership.
While American football has not matched the global popularity of other sports, its fan base is steadily growing in several countries. Here are the top ten countries contributing to the NFL’s international fan community:
| Country | Fans |
| Mexico | 23.3 million |
| Brazil | 19.7 million |
| Canada | 7.21 million |
| South Korea | 6.72 million |
| Germany | 6.66 million |
| United Kingdom | 5.73 million |
| Spain | 3.56 million |
| Saudi Arabia | 3.12 million |
| Australia | 2.64 million |
| Argentina | 2.06 million |
The Super Bowl Halftime Show: Who’s performing at the Super Bowl 2026?
The Super Bowl Halftime Show 2026 is set to be an electrifying spectacle, headlined by global superstar Bad Bunny. Known for his genre-defying sound, charismatic stage presence, and massive worldwide fanbase, Bad Bunny is poised to deliver a performance that will captivate viewers around the globe. This marks his return to the Super Bowl stage after previously appearing during the halftime show of Super Bowl LIV in 2020, when he performed alongside Jennifer Lopez and Shakira.
Adding to the musical grandeur of Super Bowl LX, several acclaimed artists will contribute during the pregame and opening festivities. Charlie Puth will perform the national anthem, while Brandi Carlile will sing “America the Beautiful” and Coco Jones will present “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as part of the ceremony.
Fun Fact
The Super Bowl Halftime Show is one of the most-watched performances globally, with viewership often surpassing the game itself. In 2022, over 103 million people tuned in to watch the show, proving its massive cultural impact.
Earlier Halftime Shows
The halftime show is more than just a performance; it is a cultural phenomenon that brings the world together through music and entertainment.
The halftime show has come a long way. Before the early ’90s, it featured university marching bands and performance ensembles. Then, it evolved to include major hit musicians, starting with New Kids on the Block in 1991. In 1993, Michael Jackson headlined to boost viewer interest. Recent years have seen iconic artists take the stage, such as a star-studded lineup of Eminem, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige in 2022, and Rihanna in 2023. Usher continued the tradition with his highly anticipated performance in Las Vegas in 2024, while Kendrick Lamar returned as the halftime headliner in 2025.
The Super Bowl halftime show has featured legendary artists, bands, and performers throughout the years. Here’s a look back at some memorable acts:
Super Bowl Halftime show list |
|
| 2025: | Kendrick Lamar |
| 2024: | Usher |
| 2023: | Rihanna |
| 2022: | Eminem, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige |
| 2021: | The Weeknd |
| 2020: | Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Emme Muniz |
| 2019: | Maroon 5, Travis Scott, and Big Boi |
| 2018: | Justin Timberlake and The Tennessee Kids |
| 2017: | Lady Gaga |
| 2016: | Coldplay, Beyonce, and Bruno Mars |
| 2015: | Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz, and Missy Elliott |
| 2014: | Bruno Mars and Red Hot Chili Peppers |
| 2013: | Beyonce |
| 2012: | Madonna |
| 2011: | The Black Eyed Peas, Usher, and Slash |
| 2010: | The Who |
| 2009: | Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band |
| 2008: | Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers |
| 2007: | Prince and the Florida A&M marching band |
| 2006: | The Rolling Stones |
| 2005: | Paul McCartney |
| 2004: | Janet Jackson, Kid Rock, P. Diddy, Nelly, and Justin Timberlake |
| 2003: | Shania Twain, No Doubt, and Sting |
| 2002: | U2 |
| 2001: | The Kings of Rock and Pop featuring Aerosmith, ‘NSYNC, Britney Spears, Mary J. Blige, and Nelly |
| 2000: | A Tapestry of Nations featuring Phil Collins, Christina Aguilera, Enrique Iglesias, Toni Braxton, and an 80-person choir |
Super Bowl 2026 Predictions
Super Bowl LX is shaping up to be an unforgettable clash between two strong NFL contenders, the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. Early expert analysis currently leans in favor of Seattle, with a group of ESPN analysts predicting the Seahawks to come out on top in Santa Clara.
Oddsmakers also have Seattle as the slight favorite on the betting lines, with the Seahawks holding a spread advantage and favored moneyline positioning in many sportsbooks.
This matchup echoes Super Bowl XLIX from 2015 – a memorable game that saw the Patriots earn the win – but many previews suggest this year’s edition could tilt toward a Seahawks victory, thanks to their balanced offense and stout defense.
As fans and analysts weigh in, the big questions remain whether Seattle’s defensive strength will control the game or if New England’s resurgence, led by rising stars on both sides of the ball, can shift momentum in their favor. Whichever way it goes, Super Bowl LX promises a championship clash worthy of the sport’s biggest stage.
What’s New This Year?
Super Bowl LX isn’t just about the game. It’s about creating an unforgettable experience for fans both inside and outside the stadium.
This year, the NFL continues to build on recent Super Bowl formats with additions that blend innovation, local culture, and large-scale fan engagement. Whether you’re attending in person or following from afar, here are some of the elements shaping the 2026 event:
- Local Bay Area Flavor: Fans visiting the region can explore Northern California’s diverse food scene, from classic stadium favorites to local specialties found throughout the Bay Area.
- Expanded Fan Events: Super Bowl week features a full lineup of fan festivals, interactive experiences, and live entertainment across multiple locations leading up to game day.
- Sustainability Efforts: Environmental initiatives remain a focus, with continued efforts around waste reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible event operations.
- Enhanced Fan Engagement: Digital experiences, interactive activations, and immersive content are expected to play a major role in how fans engage with Super Bowl LX, both at the stadium and throughout the host region.
Fun Fact
The Vince Lombardi Trophy, awarded to the game champions, is handcrafted every year by Tiffany & Co. weighs 7 pounds and costs around $50,000 to produce.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The annual league championship game of the National Football League (NFL) in the United States.
Super Bowl LX takes place on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
03:30 PM Pacific Time (PT)
04:30 PM Mountain Time (MST)
05:30 PM Central Time (CT)
06:30 PM Eastern Time (ET)
11:30 PM GMT London (UTC+0)
12:30 AM (Sunday) Central European Time (UTC+1)
01:30 AM (Sunday) Eastern European Time (UTC+2)
08:30 AM (Sunday) AEDT Sydney
The Super Bowl Halftime Show 2026 will be headlined by Bad Bunny.
The Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX.
Super Bowl LX is played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Pacific Time: 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Mountain Time: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Central Time: 7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Eastern Time: 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
2024: 123.4 million average viewers across all platforms.
Kansas City Chiefs 25 – 22 San Francisco 49ers (overtime)
Super Bowl LX will be broadcast on national U.S. television and available via official streaming platforms, with international coverage varying by region.