Ortiz and Royal witness Dallas Cowboys training session at CT George Helal

Two special spectators watched the Dallas Cowboys train at Field 4 of Ninho do Urubu on Friday (25). American football fans Léo Ortiz and Emerson Royal closely observed the team's preparation for their matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, scheduled for Sunday (27) at 5:25 p.m. at the Maracanã.

The Flamengo players began their experience by attending a press conference with Dallas head coach Brian Schottenheimer, held in the youth football auditorium. They then moved to the field to watch the team's training session.

Ortiz's connection to the NFL had already delivered a special moment in 2025. A New England Patriots supporter, the centre-back took part in a franchise action during the NFL Draft and announced the selection of Joshua Farmer, defensive tackle selected in the 137th overall position in the fourth round. That's why the number 3 shirt didn't hide his excitement about the opportunity:

"Today is my fan day. Being with these guys, whom I follow closely and who represent the sport I most enjoy watching, is crazy. Especially here at Flamengo," he said.

Lucas Henrique / Taiplay

During the session, the centre-back and fullback took the chance to chat about the sport. They discussed rules, tactics, and aspects of American football history and some league teams.

Royal, who already had interest in American football, also used the experience to get a closer look at the sport and the Dallas athletes:

"It was an incredible day! I was already interested, but now it caught my attention even more. I'm very excited for Sunday," said the number 22 shirt.

After the activity, both players interacted with Dallas Cowboys athletes, exchanged their Crest jerseys for team jerseys, swapped autographs, and also spoke with notable figures in the sport, including Von Miller, CeeDee Lamb, Trent Sieg, Bryan Anger, Brandon Aubrey, and Dak Prescott.

"These are players I really admire and enjoy watching. Everyone was very humble and good people. It was really cool, I made a dream come true. Now I'm going to put these jerseys on my bedroom wall. My collection is growing," Ortiz added.

Lucas Henrique / Taiplay

Flamengo's presence in Brazil's NFL operation also happens behind the scenes. Cardiologist Luiz Macedo and orthopaedic surgeon Fernando Sassaki, from the club's professional medical department, were temporarily contracted by the league to provide support during the teams' stay in the country.

Luiz serves as coordinator of the NFL's medical team, while Sassaki is the physician responsible for the Dallas Cowboys. Each franchise's own medical staff normally accompanies the teams, but they don't hold licences to practise in Brazil. That's why Flamengo's representatives mediate the necessary support for the teams during their time in the country.