The Madrid Bravos were the lone expansion franchise of the European League of Football in 2024, becoming Spain's second team next to the Barcelona Dragons. Despite it being their first season the Bravos qualified for the post-season in a competitive Western Conference featuring the eventual Champion Rhein Fire and the semi-finalist Paris Musketeers. 

Here are the main facts for the Madrid Bravos:

Established: September 26th, 2023

In the ELF since: season 2024

Conference: Western

Location: Madrid, Spain

Stadium: Estadio Vallehermoso (Captacity 9,000)

Head Coach: Andrew Weidinger

General Manager: Jaime Martín Lostao

Ownership: Marlos Sports 2022 SL

Successes: Reached Wildcard Round in 2024

The inaugural 2024 Season

Under the leadership of veteran head coach Rip Scherer the Madrid Bravos sent shock waves throughout the league defeating the defending Champion Rhein Fire on the road in Week 3 of the 2024 season. 

Overall the Bravos made impressive strides in their first season making the postseason with a 8-4 record in a tough Western Conference. In a rematch with the Rhein Fire they were defeated in Germany ending what was an incredible first season for the expansion franchise.

2024 key players

The team had several stars including running backs Dwayne Obi and Edu Molina, as well as quarterback Steven Duncan and homegrown talent Alejandro Fernandez. Other standouts on offense were wide receivers Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo, Willie Patterson, and Mario Flores, along with tight end Raul Cernuda Pastor.

On defense Pablo Araya Matilla was nominated for "Defensive Rookie of the Year" after leading the team in tackles. The rookie paired well with veteran All-Star safety Luke Glenna who finished the season with 5 interceptions. 

Plannings for 2025

Following the season the Madrid Bravos announced head coach Rip Sherer would not return, and the Bravos would be led by former "ELF Coach of the Year" Andrew Weidinger. Recently the Bravos announced former NFL and XFL quarterback Reid Sinnett as their QB1 for 2025. They have also re-signed several key Spanish homegrown players. 

This is the Bravos new quarterback

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