NFL Game Proceeds in Paris Amidst Civil Unrest and Political Concerns
The league maintained its schedule for the Pittsburgh Steelers vs. New Orleans Saints matchup despite protests in France and calls for postponement from figures including former President Trump.
The National Football League (NFL) proceeded with its scheduled game in Paris between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France on Sunday, despite ongoing civil unrest in France and concerns raised by former President Donald Trump.
The decision to play the game came as French President Emmanuel Macron implemented curfews and banned illegitimate protests in response to violent clashes that had erupted across the country. The unrest led to nearly 1,000 arrests and forced the cancellation of several official NFL fan events planned for Saturday.
Despite the surrounding turmoil, the league maintained its commitment to the international game, a decision it has made in the past when faced with challenging circumstances. The NFL has a history of playing through adverse conditions, including extreme weather and events like riots in host cities.
Security was visibly heightened around Stade de France for the Sunday afternoon kickoff. It remains unclear if any specific credible security threats were identified prior to the game. NFL executive vice president Peter O'Reilly had stated the league was monitoring the situation and expressed confidence in their operational and security plans.
The league's determination to play faced scrutiny. Calls for postponement or relocation were voiced by some pundits, players' families, and notably, former President Trump, who expressed concern and suggested the NFL could have postponed the match. The rescheduling of a Paris Saint-Germain soccer match due to the unrest further fueled these calls.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell indicated he had been in contact with the U.S. Department of State and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio confirmed to OutKick that the U.S. Embassy and French authorities believed the game would proceed without issue.
The international games have also seen some players express reservations about the extensive travel. Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf, when asked about future international game locations, stated he did not wish to play outside the U.S. due to travel preferences.
The game proceeded as planned, with the stadium near capacity at kickoff, marking the NFL's continued effort to expand its global presence despite external challenges.