Captain America: Brave New World Is the Start of Avengers 2.0

Six years after the Avengers disbanded following Thanos' defeat and Tony Stark's death, the world once again requires its mightiest heroes. With new Avengers films slated for 2026 and 2027, the MCU must swiftly reassemble the team. This crucial recruitment process begins in Captain America: Brave New World.

Marvel Studios producer Nate Moore explains the strategic delay in reforming the Avengers post-Endgame: "We knew if we jumped right back into the Avengers after Endgame, we wouldn't give people a chance to miss it." He highlights the historical importance of Captain America's central role in successful Avengers teams. Sam Wilson's journey to becoming Captain America, initially fraught with challenges as depicted in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, culminates in Brave New World, where he confidently embraces the mantle. However, a new, formidable challenge awaits: leading a new Avengers team.

A marketing clip reveals President Ross (Harrison Ford), succeeding the late William Hurt, tasks Wilson with restarting the Avengers initiative. This might surprise long-time fans, considering Ross's role in establishing the Sokovia Accords. Director Julius Onah explains this shift: "The man that we're meeting now is a man who is an elder statesman...who sees and understands the errors of his past and wants to do better." Ross's strategic understanding of power motivates his decision.

The new Avengers team will differ significantly. Captain America's role is now officially tied to the US government, making the Avengers a branch of the defense department. Moore explains Ross's perspective: "He certainly realized that the Avengers left unchecked may not be the best idea...he figures why not do it first before somebody beats me to the punch.”

Ross's interest, however, likely stems from the discovery of a world-altering substance: Adamantium, revealed at San Diego Comic Con 2024. This discovery from the petrified Celestial in Eternals could spark a global arms race, making a superhero team a significant advantage. Moore emphasizes the tactical advantage: "I think certainly any nation that has a group of Avengers has a leg up over anyone else."

Sam Wilson's Captain America Journey in the Comics

11 ImagesThe potential conflict between Ross and Wilson, given their history, is palpable. Onah highlights the emotional journey for Wilson: "It was really cool to then put him opposite somebody who had divided the Avengers in the past." This tension forms a key element of the film.

The possibility exists that Ross might favor a different team, perhaps the anti-heroes of Thunderbolts, including John Walker. This could leave Wilson to assemble his own independent team, potentially in time for Avengers: Doomsday. Regardless, Brave New World sets the stage for Wilson's evolution into the Avengers leader. Onah emphasizes Wilson's worthiness: "But part of telling this story is also reinforcing...why [is he worthy]?"

Wilson's empathy is highlighted as his superpower, allowing him to effectively wield the shield and its values. Moore adds: "I don't think Sam would be prepared to lead the Avengers until he truly believed that he was Captain America."

With only two films between Brave New World and Avengers: Doomsday, Wilson's recruitment efforts will likely feature in Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four: First Steps. The assembly of Avengers 2.0 begins here.