GRATITUDE: 49ers Approve $2.5 Million Statue for Joe Montana at Levi’s® Stadium — Fans Call It “Long Overdue”

History has spoken — in bronze.
In a heartfelt tribute to one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, the San Francisco 49ers have officially approved a $2.5 million statue of Joe Montana, to be placed just outside Levi’s® Stadium, honoring his legendary impact on the franchise and the game of football itself.

The decision, announced today by the 49ers’ front office, was met with overwhelming praise, tears, and a flood of nostalgia from fans across the Bay Area and beyond. Many are calling it “long overdue.”

“He changed everything.”

In a press conference streamed live from Levi’s® Stadium, team CEO Jed York made the announcement:

“Joe Montana didn’t just win games — he defined an era.
This statue will ensure that generations to come know the face of greatness.”

The bronze sculpture, currently being designed by a renowned California artist, is said to feature Montana mid-throw, eyes locked downfield — a permanent reminder of his calm under pressure, clutch performances, and four Super Bowl rings.

Emotional Waves Across the Faithful

News of the statue instantly went viral, with hashtags like #JoeMontanaForever, #49ersGOAT, and #MontanaStatue trending across X and Instagram.
Outside Levi’s® Stadium, fans began showing up within hours, some wearing throwback #16 jerseys, others holding signs that read: “We grew up watching Joe.”

One elderly fan, holding a faded game ticket from Super Bowl XXIII, said through tears:

“I watched him bring us back with seconds left on the clock.
That moment is carved into my soul. Now, it’ll be carved into stone.”

Montana Responds With Grace

The man at the heart of the celebration responded in typical Joe Cool fashion:

“I never played for statues. I played for my teammates, the fans, and the city.
But I’m honored — deeply honored.”

He then added a message that lit up social media and left longtime fans emotional:

“This isn’t just for me. It’s for every 49er who believed.”

Players, Legends, and Even Rivals React

Current 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy posted: “The standard is Joe. Always will be.”
NFL legends from Jerry Rice to Steve Young chimed in with tributes, with Rice calling Montana,

“The greatest leader I ever had the privilege to catch a pass from.”

Even rival fans — including a few diehard Cowboys supporters — acknowledged the greatness, with one writing: “Hated facing him. Respected every snap.”

More Than a Statue — A Symbol of Legacy

The statue will be unveiled in a public ceremony this fall, expected to draw thousands. The event will include special guest appearances, highlight reels of Montana’s career, and a tribute from the 49ers Faithful.

For many, this moment is about more than bronze — it’s about what Joe Montana represented: coolness under fire, excellence in execution, and the spirit of a dynasty.