How Many Super Bowls Have the Indianapolis Colts Won?

By Sarah Miller · April 18, 2054

The Indianapolis Colts have won one Super Bowl in their history, Super Bowl XLI, which took place in 2007. The victory came during the 2006 NFL season when the Colts defeated the Chicago Bears 29-17 in Miami Gardens, Florida. This win marked the franchise's first Super Bowl title since relocating from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984 and was led by quarterback Peyton Manning, who earned Super Bowl MVP honors.

Super Bowl History of the Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts are one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, with a legacy that spans multiple decades and cities. While the team originated in Baltimore and won three NFL championships before the Super Bowl era, their success in the modern NFL has been centered around their time in Indianapolis.

Key Facts About the Colts' Super Bowl Win

The Colts have appeared in two Super Bowls as the Indianapolis franchise: Super Bowl XLI and Super Bowl XLIV.
They won Super Bowl XLI (2007) against the Chicago Bears.
They lost Super Bowl XLIV (2010) to the New Orleans Saints.
Peyton Manning was the starting quarterback for both appearances.
Their sole Super Bowl victory ended a 36-year championship drought for the franchise.

Super Bowl Appearances: Full Breakdown

The Indianapolis Colts' journey to Super Bowl glory has been defined by elite quarterback play, strong coaching, and consistent regular-season performance. Below is a detailed breakdown of their two Super Bowl appearances since moving to Indianapolis.

Super Bowl	Date	Opponent	Final Score	Location	MVP	Result
Super Bowl XLI	February 4, 2007	Chicago Bears	29-17	Dolphin Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL	Peyton Manning (QB)	Win
Super Bowl XLIV	February 7, 2010	New Orleans Saints	17-31	Sun Life Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL	Drew Brees (QB)	Loss

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that the Colts reached the Super Bowl twice in a four-year span under head coach Tony Dungy and later Jim Caldwell, highlighting a period of sustained excellence. Their 2007 victory was particularly significant, as it solidified Peyton Manning’s legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history after years of criticism about his inability to win a big game. The 2010 loss to the Saints was a hard-fought contest but ultimately decided by key turnovers and a powerful performance by Drew Brees.

Legacy of the 2006 Championship Season

The 2006 season was a turning point for the Indianapolis Colts and the entire city of Indianapolis. After years of playoff disappointments, the team finally broke through under the leadership of head coach Tony Dungy, who became the first African American head coach to win a Super Bowl.

Key Contributors to the Super Bowl XLI Victory

Peyton Manning: Threw for 247 yards and 1 touchdown in the game, completing 25 of 38 passes.
Ryan Diem & Jeff Saturday: Anchored an offensive line that protected Manning effectively despite rainy conditions.
Joseph Addai: Scored a crucial rushing touchdown and contributed significantly in the passing game.
Tony Dungy: His calm leadership and defensive strategy helped contain the Bears’ aggressive defense.
Defense: Forced five turnovers, including three interceptions off Rex Grossman.

Comparison with Baltimore Colts Era

Before becoming the Indianapolis Colts, the franchise was based in Baltimore and won three NFL championships (1958, 1959, 1968), all prior to the AFL-NFL merger and the creation of the Super Bowl. These titles are not counted as Super Bowl victories, but they contribute to the overall prestige of the franchise.

It's important to distinguish between pre-Super Bowl era championships and Super Bowl wins. While the Baltimore teams were dominant in their time, the Indianapolis era is defined by its participation in the modern NFL postseason structure.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Indianapolis Colts and the Super Bowl

How many Super Bowls have the Indianapolis Colts won?

The Indianapolis Colts have won one Super Bowl: Super Bowl XLI in 2007, defeating the Chicago Bears 29-17.

When did the Colts win their only Super Bowl?

The Colts won their only Super Bowl on February 4, 2007, during the 2006 NFL season. They defeated the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI at Dolphin Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Who was the MVP of Super Bowl XLI?

Peyton Manning was named Super Bowl MVP after leading the Colts to a 29-17 victory over the Chicago Bears. He passed for 247 yards and one touchdown.

Did the Colts go to any other Super Bowls besides XLI?

Yes, the Indianapolis Colts also appeared in Super Bowl XLIV in 2010, where they lost 17-31 to the New Orleans Saints. Peyton Manning was again the starting quarterback.

Have the Colts won a Super Bowl since Peyton Manning left?

No, the Indianapolis Colts have not won a Super Bowl since Peyton Manning departed after the 2011 season. They have not returned to the Super Bowl as of the 2024 season.