For Super Bowl LX in 2026, Budweiser has brought its legendary Clydesdale horses back into the spotlight with a new ad that celebrates American heritage and iconic symbols. The 60-second commercial, titled âAmerican Icons,â pairs a Budweiser Clydesdale with a bald eagle â another powerful emblem of the United States â in a narrative about friendship, growth, and shared journeys.
In the commercialâs storyline, a young Clydesdale foal encounters a fallen eaglet and takes it under its wing â quite literally. As the two animals grow together through rain and challenges, they form a deep bond. The climax shows the fully matured bald eagle flying from the Clydesdaleâs back, creating a striking visual that fuses imagination with American symbolism. The spot closes with Budweiserâs signature line âMade in Americaâ and a tribute marking the companyâs 150th anniversary, alongside Americaâs upcoming 250th birthday.
This marks the 48th time the Budweiser Clydesdales have appeared in a Super Bowl ad, underscoring how deeply ingrained these horses are in the brandâs legacy and in Super Bowl advertising lore.
The creative decision to pair the Clydesdales with a bald eagle and set the story to Lynyrd Skynyrdâs âFree Birdâ reflects Budweiserâs intent to evoke nostalgia, patriotism, and emotional resonance â hallmarks of its most memorable ads.
Beyond the Super Bowl, the Clydesdales remain active in various appearances and traditions. In recent years, Budweiserâs Clydesdale teams have been touring the U.S. at special events, parades, and public showcases, letting fans see these majestic horses up close outside of television commercials â continuing a long history of public engagement and celebration of the brandâs heritage.
In short, the Budweiser Clydesdales are back in 2026 not just as advertising stars but as living symbols of tradition, Americana, and emotional storytelling â reminding both longtime fans and new audiences why these gentle giants remain such beloved cultural icons.
