The surprising origins of the Super Bowl

The most watched sporting event in the United States, the Super Bowl, has striking similarities to a sport played many centuries ago and over 4,000 miles away: Harpastum.

The beginnings of American football can be traced back to the old Roman Empire, and possibly even beyond. How similar is this modern team sport to its predecessors? And how did it become what it is today?

Produced by BBC's Howard Timberlake

9 February 2024

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