Bernabéu Wins: NFL’s Madrid Game a Success for Real Madrid Stadium

The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, emerged as the biggest winner from the NFL’s historic first game in Spain. While the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders battled on the field, the iconic stadium itself captivated league executives, journalists, and fans alike, sparking discussions about future events in Spain, particularly in Madrid.

The NFL chose the Bernabéu to host the international matchup, opting for the prestigious venue over the Metropolitano Stadium. League officials saw the Bernabéu as the ideal launchpad for expanding its reach into the Spanish-speaking market.

The decision was driven by the NFL as part of its broader global expansion strategy, rather than by the Dolphins or Commanders franchises. The result was a resounding success, with over 78,000 spectators filling the stands and creating an electric atmosphere. The game wasn’t just a contest; it was a major sporting event. This successful event also marks a significant step forward for Florentino Pérez’s stadium project, which had faced some local opposition regarding noise levels.

The NFL Will Return to Spain

What’s next for the NFL in Spain? Several cities are in contention, including Barcelona, Seville, and the Metropolitano Stadium. Beyond exploring potential venues, the NFL is also focused on developing grassroots football programs, such as the NFL Academy and NFL
Flag, which will be an Olympic sport in 2028. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was particularly impressed with the Bernabéu, stating the league will definitely return to Spain.

Goodell even told EFE, “We take note” of the stadium. “It means a lot to play in this stadium. It’s a world-class stadium, perhaps the best in the world,” he continued. “It’s an honor to play here, but also to connect with this community, to be in this country, to be here in Madrid. It’s a great place to play this sport. It’s good for our teams and our fans.” He wasn’t the only NFL representative captivated by the Spanish capital.

“It was as electric, if not more so, than when we play in Germany. I’m very grateful to have been able to experience this,” said Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins quarterback, during the post-game press conference. Ollie Gordon II, who scored Florida’s only touchdown, added, “An NFL game is always loud, but it felt like it reached a different level here.”

Jonathan Vilma, a former linebacker for the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints and a Super Bowl champion, also expressed his enthusiasm for the Bernabéu, voicing his hope that the NFL will host another official game in Madrid. “Being in Madrid means everything. We see the attendance, we see the fans, the interest… we’re really enjoying it. The city is incredible. We had a great time here. We hope to have more games here, in the city of Madrid. We’re happy to have been welcomed with open arms,” Vilma told EFE.

The Bernabéu, Ready for the World Cup

“We don’t have a football organization as successful and dominant as Real Madrid,” Vilma added. “Maybe the Yankees in baseball could be a comparable example. Being in this stadium, understanding the history, the success that has happened here… it’s unsurpassed. It’s incredible. I would say it’s as good as them, if not better. I know the renovations were completed last year, and they did a phenomenal job.”

Following an investment of €1.347 billion—more than double the initial budget—and with ongoing efforts to improve soundproofing for future concerts, the Bernabéu has demonstrated its ability to generate additional revenue through major events. The stadium’s interior even prompted some fans to request the option of closing the roof and utilizing the retractable pitch, as many NFL franchises play on artificial turf.

With the 2030 World Cup on the horizon and the possibility of Casablanca and Barcelona hosting the final, the Santiago Bernabéu has significantly raised its profile on television screens worldwide. “It would be an excellent stadium, but Barcelona also wants it, and that shows there is interest,” said the President of the Higher Sports Council, Rodríguez Uribes, last week. Based on what we’ve seen, the Bernabéu is a clear frontrunner.

The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, emerged as the biggest winner from the NFL’s historic first game in Spain. While the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders battled on the field, the iconic stadium itself captivated league executives, journalists, and fans alike, sparking discussions about future events in Spain, particularly in Madrid.