Radio Row, the bustling media center for the Super Bowl, took place this year at the Moscone Center in downtown San Francisco. The event, which requires proper media credentials for access, serves as a dynamic hub for athletes, celebrities, and sports media professionals. Attendees engaged in live interviews and broadcasts, showcasing the intersection of traditional journalism and modern media.
Throughout the event, which spans several days leading up to the Super Bowl, notable figures from the sports world and entertainment industry made their presence felt. Last Wednesday afternoon highlighted the event’s appeal, with sports analyst Pat McAfee hosting a lively discussion with actor Rob Riggle. Across the room, radio personality Chris “Mad Dog” Russo conducted his own segment, while ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith participated in a televised interview, supported by a team of staffers managing the logistics behind the cameras.
More than 20 media outlets set up shop at Radio Row, attracting a plethora of NFL players. Among them were Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles and Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Barkley even took a break from interviews to engage in a video game session, playing Madden NFL, showcasing the casual atmosphere of the event. Other notable attendees included former NFL quarterback Matt Ryan, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, and television personalities like Shannon Sharpe and Chad Johnson.
The Evolution of Radio Row
Radio Row has undergone significant transformation since its inception in 1992 during Super Bowl XXVI in Minneapolis. Initially created as a solution for radio stations needing space to broadcast updates to local audiences, it has evolved into a multifaceted multimedia marketplace. Today, livestreams, social media content, and influencer engagements are as prominent as traditional journalism, reflecting the changing landscape of sports media.
The Moscone Center also featured various internet personalities, such as Matthew Meagher, known as MMG, who has over three million subscribers on YouTube. He participated in a friendly match against Barkley during the Madden session. Additionally, the popular TikTok and Instagram duo known as “The Costco Guys” made an appearance. Their presence, although not directly related to football, helped draw attention and increase viewership for the event.
While the transformation of Radio Row into a platform for quick video clips and influencer interactions may evoke mixed reactions, its status as a central gathering point during Super Bowl week remains unquestionable. Media professionals, fans, and athletes alike recognize that Radio Row is where the action happens, making it an essential stop during one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
