VIKINGS ADD ARAYA, WIENS

Although almost all Vienna Vikings players are now officially known, there was still time for the American Football League Europe side to confirm two new signings with the opening weekend not far away.

Offensive lineman Nick Wiens celebrated two championship titles with AFLE rival Rhein Fire in 2023 and 2024, and brings valuable winning mentality and physical presence to Vienna. With his skillset, Wiens strengthens an already top-notch offensive line featuring Lukas Holub, David Rauter, Clemens Walz, Aleksandar Milanovic, Brendan Oswin and Oliver Durc, which has been training together since April 7th.

Vikings fans can also look forward to a high-calibre addition on the defensive side of the ball, with DB Pablo Araya joining from the Madrid Bravos. The Spaniard recently garnered attention across Europe with his skillset while playing in the ELF and was nominated for the league’s defensive rookie of the year honour in 2024.

“Vienna has an absolutely rocket of a defense,” Araya said of his decision to pick the Vikings. “I love the culture they’ve been able to build over the years.”

The Vikings kick off the first ever AFLE season against Berlin Thunder on Saturday 23rd May.