49ers' top offensive star agrees to play in Saudi Arabia after the season ends, teaming up with legend Tom Brady

San Francisco, September 16, 2025 – A global sporting event is on the horizon as the San Francisco 49ers’ top offensive star, Christian McCaffrey, has confirmed his participation in the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in March 2026. The most exciting part: he will team up with legend Tom Brady in this exhibition tournament.

The event is scheduled for March 21, 2026, just one month after Super Bowl 2026 takes place in Santa Clara. It will be a flag football tournament – a non-contact version of American football – played in a three-team round-robin format. Though it’s an exhibition event, it features a star-studded lineup of NFL’s top talents, turning Saudi Arabia into the focal point of the global sports world.

According to ESPN, in addition to Brady and McCaffrey, other stars confirmed to participate include Rob Gronkowski, Saquon Barkley, CeeDee Lamb, Sauce Gardner, Myles Garrett, Tyreek Hill, and Odell Beckham Jr. On the coaching side, Pete Carroll (Raiders), Sean Payton (Broncos), and Kyle Shanahan (49ers) will be the ones calling the shots.

Saudi Arabia’s heavy investment in bringing the NFL to the Middle East no longer surprises sports fans. Following LIV Golf, soccer, and even ambitions with the NBA, the country continues to expand its “soft power” through sports. The presence of Brady – the greatest player in NFL history – alongside McCaffrey – currently the most complete offensive star – further elevates the tournament’s global appeal.

McCaffrey, who has become the cornerstone of the 49ers’ offense since being traded from the Panthers in 2022, will wrap up the NFL season before heading to Saudi Arabia. The pairing of an icon like Brady with a top-tier star like McCaffrey promises to deliver a captivating performance, transcending sports and becoming a unique cultural and entertainment event.