Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, has had his ban from the NFL lifted. The league confirmed to TMZ on Monday that Portnoy is permitted to attend Super Bowl 2026, scheduled for February 8 at Levi”s Stadium, where his favorite team, the New England Patriots, will face the Seattle Seahawks, provided he purchases a ticket.
Prior to the NFL”s announcement, Portnoy expressed to the outlet his belief that he was no longer banned, stating, “I have 100 percent intentions to go watch the Super Bowl as a fan and enjoy it.” He added, “I”m not looking for trouble. I”m just looking to cue the duck boats and have another parade.”
The ongoing dispute between Portnoy, Barstool Sports, and the NFL traces back to 2015, during the controversy surrounding the suspension of quarterback Tom Brady over the “Deflategate” scandal. Following a protest at the league”s headquarters in Manhattan, Portnoy and three other Barstool employees were arrested. Subsequently, the NFL denied Barstool Sports credentials for the Super Bowl, citing the protest as the reason.
In 2017, Portnoy was removed from the Super Bowl event when the Patriots staged a remarkable comeback against the Falcons after trailing 28-3. However, it seems the long-standing feud is nearing resolution. Portnoy took to social media on Monday, stating, “Breaking: I”m hearing that the NFL ban on Barstool Sports has been lifted. It feels like the end of Rocky IV. This hasn”t been 100 percent confirmed but the Cold War may be over.”
While it remains uncertain whether the lifted ban applies solely to Portnoy or if it extends to other Barstool Sports employees attending league media events, one thing is clear: Portnoy will have the opportunity to enjoy watching the Patriots pursue a seventh Super Bowl title without the fear of being ejected this time around.
