Clydesdales return with heart, nostalgia and quiet power

A familiar sight returns to the big game

February 10, 2026: Budweiser brought back its iconic Clydesdale horses for the Super Bowl once again, leaning into tradition at a time when many brands chased shock value. The ad opened with sweeping rural imagery, immediately signaling a return to the brand’s emotional roots.
Old friends.

Image Credit: Budweiser

Strength, patience and legacy

The commercial centered on the Clydesdales’ quiet strength, using slow pacing and minimal dialogue to let visuals do the work. Each movement felt deliberate, reinforcing themes of perseverance, trust, and continuity — values Budweiser has long associated with the horses.
Timeless tone.

Why the horses still work

Unlike celebrity-driven ads, the Clydesdales don’t rely on novelty. Their presence alone carries meaning, evoking decades of Super Bowl memories. In a broadcast crowded with noise, their calm authority stood out.
Earned impact.

Craft over spectacle

The ad avoided flashy edits or punchline humor. Instead, it relied on classic cinematography, natural settings, and emotional restraint. The result felt less like an advertisement and more like a short film.
Confidence shown.

Image Credit: Budweiser

Audience reaction

Viewers responded with warmth and familiarity, calling the spot comforting and sincere. For many, the Clydesdales remain a signal that the Super Bowl has truly arrived.
Tradition felt.

Image Credit: Budweiser

Final thoughts

Budweiser didn’t reinvent its most famous symbol — it trusted it. By letting the Clydesdales speak without words, the brand delivered one of the game’s most grounded and memorable moments.
Still iconic.

FAQs

Q1: What is featured in Budweiser’s Super Bowl commercial?
The iconic Budweiser Clydesdale horses.

Q2: Why are the Clydesdales important to Budweiser?
They symbolize tradition, strength, and the brand’s long history.

Q3: Was the ad humorous or emotional?
Primarily emotional, with a nostalgic tone.

Q4: Did the ad use celebrities?
No — the focus remained on the horses and storytelling.

Q5: How did viewers respond?
Many praised the ad for its sincerity and classic Super Bowl feel.