LATEST UPDATE: Bronze Statue of Indianapolis Colts Legend Peyton Manning Revealed, Commemorating His Historic Contributions to Football and the City……….
Indianapolis, May 25, 2025 – In a momentous ceremony filled with emotion, pride, and celebration, the Indianapolis Colts and the city of Indianapolis unveiled a towering bronze statue of legendary quarterback Peyton Manning outside Lucas Oil Stadium today. The tribute commemorates Manning’s extraordinary career and lasting legacy both on and off the football field.
Hundreds of fans, former teammates, NFL legends, and civic leaders gathered under sunny skies to witness the official unveiling of the statue, which stands nearly 9 feet tall and captures Manning in a familiar pose — dropping back to pass, eyes locked downfield, frozen in one of his signature moments. Created by renowned sculptor Brian Hanlon, the statue is mounted on a granite base etched with some of Manning’s most iconic achievements.
“This is more than a statue — it’s a symbol of excellence, perseverance, and leadership,” said Colts owner Jim Irsay during the unveiling ceremony. “Peyton transformed this franchise and this city. We’re proud to honor him in this permanent way.”
Peyton Manning, who played for the Colts from 1998 to 2011, was visibly moved as he addressed the crowd, thanking fans, teammates, coaches, and the entire Colts organization. “I never took for granted what it meant to wear the Horseshoe on my helmet,” said Manning. “Indianapolis embraced me from the very beginning, and it’s been one of the greatest honors of my life to play for this city.”
During his 13 seasons with the Colts, Manning revolutionized the quarterback position and led the team to new heights. He earned four of his five NFL MVP awards with Indianapolis and helped the team win Super Bowl XLI in 2007 — the first in franchise history since moving to Indianapolis. Under Manning’s leadership, the Colts made the playoffs 11 times, won eight division titles, and posted a 14-0 start in 2009, setting multiple league records along the way.
Beyond his on-field achievements, Manning’s impact on the Indianapolis community has been profound. His PeyBack Foundation has donated millions to programs for disadvantaged youth, and his legacy of community service continues to inspire. “He gave us more than wins — he gave us hope and pride,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “This statue is not just a tribute to a football icon, but to a man who helped shape the spirit of our city.”
The statue’s placement outside Lucas Oil Stadium ensures it will become a destination for fans for generations to come. It joins other tributes to Colts greats and is part of a broader effort by the franchise to celebrate its history and deepen its connection with fans.
Also in attendance were former teammates Reggie Wayne, Jeff Saturday, Marvin Harrison, and Dallas Clark — many of whom shared personal stories about Manning’s leadership, work ethic, and relentless pursuit of excellence. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell praised Manning as “one of the greatest ambassadors the game has ever known.”
The event also featured musical performances, Colts cheerleaders, and interactive exhibits showcasing Manning’s career highlights, Super Bowl memorabilia, and never-before-seen behind-the-scenes footage.
As the statue was finally revealed, chants of “Peyton! Peyton!” echoed through the plaza, a testament to the enduring admiration Colts Nation holds for their beloved quarterback.
Peyton Manning was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021, but today’s ceremony added another permanent chapter to his storied career — not just as a football icon, but as a symbol of leadership, character, and the indelible bond between a player and a city that will forever call him their own.
