Louisiana Governor Travels to Paris Amid Unrest for NFL Game
Jeff Landry leads delegation to France for Saints-Steelers matchup, while also planning business meetings.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has traveled to Paris with supporters and the Lombardi Trophy for the NFL's game between the New Orleans Saints and the Pittsburgh Steelers at Stade de France. Landry's departure from Louis Armstrong Airport occurred Monday evening.
Landry, a Republican, expressed confidence in the safety measures for the trip, despite recent unrest in France. The NFL released a statement Sunday indicating that preparations for the game were continuing as scheduled. "Preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France next Sunday," the league stated. "We continue to work closely with local authorities and partners on all operational and security matters. We are also providing the two clubs with regular updates. There’s been no disruption or impact at league sites."
The Saints, who are already in France, had Tuesday off and some players planned to attend a Paris Saint-Germain FC soccer match. The Steelers are scheduled to travel to France on Thursday. Pittsburgh players, coaches, and owner Art Rooney II participated in a Zoom meeting with the league office on Monday to discuss the trip.
"That's part of the normal planning anytime you go abroad," Steelers coach Mike McCarthy said. "The team is excited to go over there but we're in contact with the league... We are aware of the situations over there, and have a lot of confidence in our plan."
The trip takes place against a backdrop of widespread civil unrest in France, which has led to curfews and the closure of businesses and tourist attractions in Paris and other cities. Landry stated that he has been in contact with the State Department and partners in France regarding the situation.
Beyond attending the game, Governor Landry plans to conduct business on behalf of Louisiana. He noted that the state has significant business dealings in Europe and has scheduled meetings with executives from companies like Shell and BP. Landry also hopes to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who is expected to attend the game, to discuss the possibility of New Orleans hosting a future Super Bowl.