Tom Brady, the renowned quarterback and seven-time Super Bowl winner, is set to defend his title at the upcoming Fanatics Games this summer. The event will be held from July 16 to 19 in New York City and will feature a $2 million prize, doubling last year’s reward. This competition, part of Fanatics Fest 2026, brings athletes and fans together for cross-sport challenges that test their skills in various sports.
Joining Brady are athletes including NBA star James Harden, NFL legend Rob Gronkowski, UFC fighter Justin Gaethje, and WWE talents Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, Rhea Ripley, and Liv Morgan. Last year’s fan champion, Matt Dennish, will also return to compete. The wide range of participants highlights the event’s appeal to fans and pros alike.
Fan Engagement and Expanded Competition Format
Last year’s contest featured prominent names like Kevin Durant, Joe Burrow, Eli Manning, and CeeDee Lamb, alongside Brady and Harden. After winning, Brady generously chose to share part of the $1 million prize, promising $5,000 to each competing fan rather than keeping the full amount himself.
The Fanatics Games challenge athletes and fans in activities such as quarterback drills, basketball shooting, and baseball pitching. In 2026, the format will expand to include more competitive elements and enhanced gameplay designed to excite both live audiences and global livestream viewers. Fanatics described the event as
“bigger, faster, and more competitive than ever,”
with streamlined scoring and an improved production experience.
Qualifiers Across the Country Lead to the Final Event
For the first time, fans can try out for the Fanatics Games through in-person qualifiers held at Dick’s House of Sport locations nationwide. Spots in the competition will be awarded to the top three finishers in each sport-specific challenge. Those unable to attend these qualifiers can participate via a video application process.
The qualifier events are scheduled for May 9 in Knoxville, Tennessee; May 30 in Kennesaw, Georgia; June 13 in Houston; and June 28 in Boston. The finalists from these events will then compete in New York City alongside Brady and other star athletes at Fanatics Fest.
What the Fanatics Games Mean for Fans and Athletes
This event creates a unique platform where everyday fans and professional athletes can compete side by side in a variety of sports, fostering community and shared excitement. The increased prize and expanded competition reflect the growing popularity of the Games, promising thrilling moments for participants and spectators alike. With high-profile athletes and dedicated fans joining forces, the 2026 Fanatics Games are poised to captivate audiences and help build a strong tradition in competitive fan-athlete interaction.
Tom Brady announces he's giving $5,000 to every fan who competed in the Fanatics Games 👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/7HdAyOf0mC
— cllct (@cllctMedia) June 22, 2025
