Nearly 80,000 Fans Attend the First NFL Game Ever Played in Spain
A historic night in Madrid saw more than 78,000 spectators pack the Santiago Bernabéu to witness the first-ever NFL game in Spain, featuring the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Commanders.
A Record-Breaking Crowd at the Bernabéu
Madrid lived an unforgettable night as 78,610 fans filled the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to watch the first NFL matchup ever held on Spanish soil. The clash between the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Commanders drew massive attention, marking a milestone in the league’s international expansion.
According to event organizers, the stadium was nearly at full capacity as both teams headed into halftime tied 6-6. The atmosphere inside the Bernabéu reflected the excitement surrounding American football’s rapid growth in Spain, with thousands of local fans mixed with international supporters creating a world-class environment.
The conversion of the Bernabéu—home of Real Madrid—into an NFL-ready venue was also widely praised, proving the stadium’s versatility for global sporting events.
Overtime Drama in Spain’s First NFL Game
As the matchup progressed, the intensity only increased. By the end of regulation, Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders were locked in a 13-13 draw, forcing overtime in this historic debut.
In line with NFL rules, the extra period was set at ten minutes, guaranteeing at least one possession for each team. Fans in Madrid experienced the full NFL spectacle: tension, strategy, and dramatic swings in momentum throughout all four quarters.
The league’s decision to bring an official game to Spain proved to be a massive success, reinforcing the NFL’s commitment to expanding its global footprint. With such a turnout and electrifying atmosphere, Spain now positions itself as a promising future destination for more NFL action.
