KC Reporter

More than 200 members of the Kansas City Chiefs organization departed for São Paulo, Brazil on Wednesday morning as part of preparations for their season-opening game against the Los Angeles Chargers. The group traveled nearly 6,000 miles from Kansas City International Airport, following the team's established process for road games.

This trip marks a milestone for the franchise. When Friday night's game begins, the Chiefs will become the first NFL team to play regular-season games in four different countries outside the United States. Previous international appearances include games in the United Kingdom (2015), Mexico (2019), and Germany (2023), all resulting in victories for Kansas City.

A win in São Paulo would tie the Chiefs with the Minnesota Vikings for most international wins without a loss in league history.

Head Coach Andy Reid commented on how familiar his staff is with these logistical challenges: "I think our people have a pretty good feel for it," Reid said. "It's an interesting process, but our guys have gotten pretty efficient with it over the years."

The team adjusted its weekly schedule to accommodate travel and time zone differences. Monday was treated as a typical Wednesday at One Arrowhead Drive to maintain routine. After an 11-hour flight, players arrived late Wednesday night in Brazil. Unlike last year's trip to Germany, acclimation is less of an issue since São Paulo is only two hours ahead of Kansas City.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes noted how preparation extended beyond football: "I think it's just about managing the plane ride and keeping yourself moving whenever you [can] and getting your body right," Mahomes said. "The trainers and coaches have really done the research and they understand what we need to do. So, now it's just [about] going down there and playing football."

The Chiefs held their walk-through practice at São Paulo Athletic Club before engaging with Brazilian media and fans. The organization hosted a "Chiefs House" event Thursday evening attended by Chairman & CEO Clark Hunt, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and local celebrities.

Additionally, members of the organization plan to visit a Ronald McDonald House in São Paulo before heading to Arena Corinthians for Friday's game.

Mahomes spoke about representing American football abroad: "I'm super excited. It'll be a great experience, and a great chance to showcase who we are as the Kansas City Chiefs worldwide," he said. "I know the fan base in Brazil is extremely excited as well, so it'll be a cool experience, and being able to play our first game out there against a great opponent, it'll be a lot of fun."