The Dresden Monarchs secured the German American football championship by defeating the Potsdam Royals 27:19 in a final played before 25,000 spectators at the Rudolf-Harbig-Stadium, bild.de reported. The fixture drew the largest crowd for a domestic American football event in Europe outside of NFL games, according to American Football Verband Deutschland general manager Michael Schwarzer.
Rudolf-Harbig-Stadium Secured for 2027 Final After Record Turnout
Following the attendance milestone, it was announced that the GFL Bowl will return to Dresden in 2027 for the third year. Monarchs boss Sören Glöckner stated that the venue generates the largest crowds and strongest atmosphere, making it the home for the showcase event. Saxony’s Minister President Michael Kretschmer and Dresden mayor Dirk Hilbert attended the match, which surpassed previous attendance figures for finals this millennium.
Quarterback Rocky Lombardi Earns MVP Honors in European Debut
American quarterback Rocky Lombardi guided the Monarchs offense to the title and collected Most Valuable Player honors for the final. The 28-year-old signal-caller scored a crucial touchdown to anchor the victory, marking his first season playing in Europe. Lombardi described the atmosphere and victory in Dresden as the highlight of his career while remaining noncommittal about returning for the next campaign, noting that decisions on his future will follow the celebrations.
Greg Seamon Directs Dresden Through an Undefeated Campaign
Head coach Greg Seamon led Dresden through a 15-0 record, capturing the club’s second national title following their championship in 2021. Seamon, who worked as a trainer with the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and Cleveland Browns, expressed astonishment at finishing a full schedule without a single loss. Glöckner confirmed that the organization’s immediate priority following the championship celebrations is planning the defense of the national title.
Keep reading