Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor has explained the organization's decision regarding when the team will travel to Spain for their upcoming international game. The announcement comes as the NFL continues to expand its global footprint with regular-season games played outside the United States.
Taylor's comments, reported by the Cincinnati Enquirer, shed light on the logistical considerations involved in preparing for a transatlantic trip during the regular season. The Bengals are among the teams selected to participate in the NFL's International Series, which has seen games hosted in London, Germany, and now Spain.
Travel timing for international games presents unique challenges for NFL teams, including managing player recovery, adjusting to time zone changes, and maintaining practice schedules. Teams typically arrive several days early to acclimate, though the exact schedule varies based on coaching philosophy and team needs.
The NFL's push into Spain represents the league's latest effort to grow its international fanbase, following successful games in Mexico, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The Barcelona or Madrid venue would mark the first regular-season NFL game played in Spain.
