Why Is It Called the Super Bowl?

By Sarah Miller · October 23, 2032

The Super Bowl is called the ‘Super Bowl’ because it was coined by Kansas City Chiefs founder Lamar Hunt, who jokingly compared the new NFL-AFL championship game to children’s ‘super balls,’ and the name stuck despite initial resistance from league officials.

Origin of the Name ‘Super Bowl’

The term ‘Super Bowl’ originated in 1966 during discussions about the merger between the National Football League (NFL) and the American Football League (AFL). The championship game between the two leagues needed a catchy title. Initially, it was referred to formally as the “AFL-NFL World Championship Game.” However, this name lacked excitement and public appeal.

Lamar Hunt’s Influence

Lamar Hunt, owner of the Kansas City Chiefs and a key figure in the AFL, is credited with naming the event. In a letter to NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle, Hunt wrote: “We should have a ‘Super Bowl’!” He reportedly got the idea from his children’s toy, a “super ball” that was popular at the time. Though meant humorously, the name gained traction among players, media, and fans.

The name ‘Super Bowl’ was not officially adopted until Super Bowl III in 1969.
Prior to official adoption, early games were labeled ‘AFL-NFL Championship Game I, II,’ etc.
Hunt’s casual suggestion became one of the most iconic brand names in sports history.

Evolution of the Super Bowl Brand

What began as a lighthearted nickname evolved into a global cultural phenomenon. The Super Bowl is now more than just a football game; it’s a major entertainment event featuring high-profile halftime shows, celebrity appearances, and multi-million-dollar commercials.

Key Milestones in Super Bowl Naming

Understanding how the name transitioned from informal slang to official branding highlights its cultural impact.

Game	Year	Official Name Used	Common Name
Super Bowl I	1967	AFL-NFL World Championship Game	Super Bowl
Super Bowl II	1968	AFL-NFL World Championship Game	Super Bowl
Super Bowl III	1969	Super Bowl	Super Bowl
Super Bowl LIV	2020	Super Bowl	Super Bowl
Super Bowl LVIII	2024	Super Bowl	Super Bowl

Table data source:1, 2

The table shows the shift from formal nomenclature to the universal use of ‘Super Bowl’ by both the NFL and public. By 1969, the league officially embraced the name due to overwhelming public usage. Since then, Roman numerals have been used to designate each game, adding prestige and continuity.

Cultural Impact and Global Recognition

The name ‘Super Bowl’ has transcended sports. It symbolizes peak American entertainment and marketing power. Advertisers pay over $7 million for a 30-second commercial spot during the broadcast, and viewership regularly exceeds 100 million in the U.S. alone.

The term is trademarked and tightly controlled by the NFL.
Attempts to use ‘Super Bowl’ in unrelated promotions often result in legal action.
International audiences recognize the name even without deep knowledge of American football.

Frequently Asked Questions About Why It's Called the Super Bowl

Who came up with the name Super Bowl?

Lamar Hunt, founder of the Kansas City Chiefs and a driving force behind the AFL, coined the term ‘Super Bowl’ in 1966 after being inspired by his kids’ “super ball” toy. His casual suggestion quickly spread and became the de facto name.

Why wasn’t it always called the Super Bowl?

The NFL initially resisted the name, considering it too informal. The first two championship games were officially titled “AFL-NFL World Championship Game.” The league didn’t adopt ‘Super Bowl’ officially until 1969, starting with Super Bowl III.

Was ‘Super Bowl’ meant to be a serious name?

No, the name started as a joke. Lamar Hunt used ‘Super Bowl’ in a letter to league executives in a lighthearted way. However, players, journalists, and fans began using it widely, forcing the NFL to eventually accept it due to popularity.

Why does the Super Bowl use Roman numerals?

Roman numerals were introduced starting with Super Bowl V (1971) to give the event a more grand and timeless feel. They also help distinguish the game as a singular annual event, separate from regular season numbering.

Has the name ‘Super Bowl’ influenced other sports events?

Yes, many sports leagues have adopted ‘super bowl’ as a template for naming their championships, such as ‘Super Sunday’ or regional variations like Canada’s ‘Grey Cup’ sometimes being called ‘Canada’s Super Bowl.’ The branding power of the name is globally recognized.