Flamengo stars Leo Ortiz and Emerson Royal had a fan moment at Ninho do Urubu, interacting with NFL players preparing for the historic game at the Maracanã.
The Ninho do Urubu training center, the stronghold of Flamengo, turned into an unusual stage for a meeting between traditional football and American football. Last week, the rubro-negro complex hosted training for the Dallas Cowboys, one of the most renowned teams in the National Football League (NFL), as they prepare for a groundbreaking matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at the Maracanã.
The presence of the gridiron giants at CT George Helal, the official name of Flamengo‘s training facility, generated great anticipation and a memorable moment. Flamengo defenders Leo Ortiz and Emerson Royal were present at the session, observing the American athletes’ work with notable admiration and humor, highlighting the importance of this sports exchange.
Interaction and behind-the-scenes at the rubro-negro training center
During practice, the atmosphere was relaxed and focused on sharing experiences. Right-back Emerson Royal, known for his charisma, did not miss the chance to joke with the league stars. In a lighthearted tone, he teased the athletes about their speed on the field.
Honestly, in a race, do you think if I turn on the jets I could beat these guys? On this open field? What?? Only 22 mph? Forget about it, I hit 33. They wouldn’t catch me.
A fan day for Leo Ortiz
For center-back Leo Ortiz, a self-declared NFL fan and supporter of the New England Patriots, it was a dream come true. He expressed his passion for the sport and the thrill of being alongside his idols in his own workplace, Flamengo.
Today is my fan day. Being with these guys, whom I follow closely and who play the sport I love watching the most, is surreal. Especially here at Flamengo. These are players I admire immensely. Everyone was very humble and cool. It was a really great experience; I fulfilled a dream. Now I’m going to put these jerseys on my wall at home. My collection is growing.
Meeting stars and exchanging jerseys
The rubro-negro duo’s experience began with the press conference held by Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer. Afterward, they watched the Texan team’s tactical drills up close. Following the session, Ortiz and Royal spoke with NFL stars such as Von Miller, CeeDee Lamb, Trent Sieg, Bryan Anger, Brandon Aubrey, and quarterback Dak Prescott, exchanging Flamengo jerseys for signed Cowboys gear.
Rubro-negro medical support for NFL operations
The scale of the NFL‘s visit to Rio de Janeiro also mobilized Flamengo‘s medical department. Cardiologist Luiz Macedo and orthopedist Fernando Sassaki were hired temporarily by the event organizers to ensure logistical support and medical safety for the teams. Luiz Macedo coordinated the general medical sector, while Fernando Sassaki worked directly with the Dallas Cowboys to bridge the licensing gap for American doctors on Brazilian soil.
The big NFL game in Rio
The highly anticipated matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Baltimore Ravens will take place this Sunday, September 27, at 5:25 PM (Brasilia Time), at the Maracanã. This match will mark a historic milestone as Rio de Janeiro hosts an official NFL regular-season game, consolidating the city as a hub for major international sporting events.
The interaction between Flamengo players and the NFL at Ninho do Urubu highlights the power of sports to transcend borders and disciplines. This event not only provided an unforgettable experience for Leo Ortiz and Emerson Royal but also reinforced the image of Rio de Janeiro and Flamengo as excellent hosts for global events, opening doors for future collaborations between traditional football and the growing interest in American football in Brazil.
