Falcons Train at Real Madrid Facility Ahead of Sunday Clash
The Atlanta squad used a Madrid gym to recover from trans-Atlantic travel before facing Cincinnati, marking a new venue for NFL preparation.
By Giulia Marshall ·
Atlanta Falcons players used the training complex of Real Madrid on Wednesday to recover from their flight to Spain. The team arrived in the city in the morning after traveling from Atlanta. They spent the day in a gym that typically hosts soccer athletes. This setup offers a specific environment for football players preparing for a Sunday game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Head coach Arthur Smith arrived in Madrid on Tuesday. He joined the team after a brief workout designed to loosen muscles stiffened by the long flight. Smith noted that the group shared time together in the gym. He described the atmosphere as positive for building team cohesion before the contest. The coach emphasized that the players were ready for the upcoming schedule.
The selection of Madrid as a recovery site reflects a shift in how NFL teams manage travel. The league has expanded its international presence. Teams now utilize facilities in host cities to address player fatigue. This approach aims to improve performance in games played abroad. The Falcons are one of several clubs to use this strategy this season.
About 50 members of the Spanish and European media attended the session. They observed the workout from the sidelines. The presence of local press adds a layer of exposure for the team. It also serves as a promotional tool for the NFL in Europe. The interaction with local journalists provides a different dynamic than training in the United States.
Quarterback Kirk Cousins discussed the benefits of the location. He stated that the team had a cool day and felt good after a Sunday game. He expressed enthusiasm for the trip. The quarterback highlighted the chance to experience a new environment. He noted that the facility provided a suitable setting for rest and preparation.
Wide receiver Drake London also commented on the experience. He said the group was happy to be in Madrid. He described the city as a great place to be. London pointed out that the team had a different vibe during the trip. He suggested that the change of scenery helped the players refocus.
The Falcons will play their game at the Metropolitano Stadium. The venue has hosted NFL games in recent years. The team will return to Atlanta after the match. The recovery session in Madrid is part of a standard protocol for international travel. It ensures players are physically prepared for the demands of the game.
The team’s presence in Spain continues the league’s effort to grow its global fan base. The Falcons are one of two teams playing in Madrid this weekend. The Bengals are also in the city. Both teams arrived with similar goals in mind. They aim to perform well in front of a European crowd. The game serves as a test of their preparation and resilience.
