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NFL referee calls penalty in German during Dolphins-Chiefs game in Frankfurt

jack mckessy, usa today
·1-min read

The first of two NFL games in Germany during the 2023 season took place at Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt for Week 9.

The Kansas City Chiefs (6-2) and Miami Dolphins (6-2) went head-to-head in the NFL's second ever game in Germany – a clash between two of the AFC's best teams in 2023 with the Chiefs getting the better of Miami, 21-14.

NFL Network's English-language broadcast of the game was largely normal – there wasn't any major changes to the game's presentation for its audience abroad – with one unique exception.

On the first penalty of the game, a false start from Dolphins wide receiver Chase Claypool, referee Clay Martin said the first part of the penalty call in German.

Aug 29, 2019; Jacksonville, FL, USA; NFL umpire Clay Martin (19) walks on the field during the second quarter of the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Atlanta Falcons at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 29, 2019; Jacksonville, FL, USA; NFL umpire Clay Martin (19) walks on the field during the second quarter of the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Atlanta Falcons at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

Chiefs vs. Dolphins: Live updates: Score, highlights, biggest plays in Germany

NFL referee speaks German to make penalty call

"Fehlstart," the sixth-year NFL referee said before continuing in English. "Offense, number 83. Five-yard penalty. Third down."

Through one half of football, it's the only call Martin has made in German.

NFL Week 9 picks: Will Dolphins or Chiefs triumph in battle of AFC's best?

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL International Series: referee speaks German during Dolphins-Chiefs