The owner, rider, and handler of the Denver Broncos' mascot, Thunder IV, have announced their retirement after more than three decades of service.
This transition marks the end of an era for one of the NFL's most visible game-day traditions. The mascot's presence has become a staple of the fan experience in Denver, Colorado, bridging generations of supporters through the team's home games.
Thunder has been a part of Broncos home games since 1993 [1]. The retirement comes after 33 years of service [1] from the team behind the mascot, which includes the horse's owner and handler. The announcement signals a shift in the program's leadership as the current team retires [2].
The partnership between the handler and the animal has defined the mascot's role for over 30 years [2]. While Thunder IV and the longtime handler are stepping away, the organization has confirmed that the Thunder program will continue beyond 2026 [3].
The mascot's role involves leading the team onto the field and engaging with the crowd—a high-energy task that requires significant coordination between the rider and the horse. The transition ensures that the tradition of a galloping horse at home games remains intact for future seasons [2].
“Thunder has been part of Broncos home games since 1993”
The retirement of Thunder IV and its handler represents a rare level of longevity in professional sports entertainment. By maintaining the mascot program beyond 2026, the Denver Broncos are preserving a specific brand identity and tradition while updating the personnel responsible for the animal's safety and performance.
