Source: StadiumDB.com; Author: Paulina Scola
An American football game in Spain is closer than ever. According to Relevo sources, the NFL has given the green light to hold games outside the United States in 2025. After a positive experience in the European competition, the Americans are looking to expand into new countries in the Old Continent.
She has feelings for the Bernabeu, but…?
To achieve this goal, an international delegation from the N.F.L. Visit Santiago Bernabéu and Metropolitano Last October, we assessed the possibility of hosting matches at these venues. They were happy with both, but were especially enamored with Real Madrid’s stadium, even though it was under construction. It is hoped that Spain’s first NFL game will be held in the center of Madrid.
Although some details of the agreement still need to be clarified, the aim is to finalize the issue and Official announcement by February 11th, before Super Bowl XI. A match at the Bernabéu in 2024 was also considered, but Brazil was chosen that year. NFL leaders hope to wait until 2025, when the Bernabéu is fully completed and has experience hosting large-scale events.
Dream place: Metropolitano
Relevo journalist Sergio Santos provides a behind-the-scenes look at NHL executives’ stadium selection. Atlético Madrid’s venue seemed to be the favorite to host the event, mainly due to its location. The Bernabéu is located in the middle of Calle Castellana, which is one of the busiest streets in Madrid. Holding such an important event there would be a disruption to normal life, especially considering the NFL is planning a week full of activities that will culminate in Sunday’s game. In contrast, Metropolitano is relatively removed from the hustle and bustle of the city and has open spaces all around. Many parks would provide organizers with enough space to plan events before and after games without inconveniencing city residents.
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So why the Bernabéu?
Florentino Perez was aware of the thought process going on in the organizers’ heads, but instead of taking a step back, he decided to turn it into an opportunity. He turned the stadium’s main weakness into one of its greatest strengths. As a result, Real Madrid presented a proposal that attracted more attention and generated more buzz. They emphasized that interest in the NFL would further increase if the event was held in an iconic location in the city with high pedestrian and tourist traffic. The idea involves installing a large fan zone around the perimeter. madrid rio, where concerts and various activities are held.Other interesting places in Madrid Plaza Callao, Plaza Espanya, Plaza Colon, etc. are also being considered. In this way, organizers aim to attract not only the attention of NFL fans who visit the city for the event, but also the thousands of people who pass through these locations every day.
Madrid – Barcelona 2:0
If this agreement is finalized, it will be another huge success for Madrid following their victory in winning the F1 Grand Prix. The capital competed with Barcelona to host the event. It will also be a great satisfaction for Florentino Pérez, as one of his goals was to host American football matches in the stadium when the renovation of the Bernabéu began. The first steps towards 2025 have already been taken. Eight NFL games will be held outside the United States. Barring any negative surprises, one of the games will take place in the Spanish capital, specifically on Real Madrid’s field.
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