Steelers Cancel Paris Fan Event Amid French Protests
The NFL team cited civil unrest as a precautionary measure for the cancellation of a planned fan gathering in the Bastille neighborhood.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have canceled a fan event scheduled for Paris this weekend as French authorities prepare for potential protests ahead of the NFL's first regular-season game in the capital. The team announced the cancellation of its "Steelers House" event in the Bastille neighborhood on Thursday.
This decision comes in the wake of significant urban unrest across France in the preceding week. President Emmanuel Macron announced tighter restrictions on protests on Thursday, amid concerns that demonstrations planned for Saturday could escalate into violence. The Steelers are scheduled to play the New Orleans Saints at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis on Sunday, approximately six miles from the Place de la Bastille, where protests are anticipated to commence.
"The NFL, as they do for every game, including international games, is working closely with local authorities and partners on all operational and security matters," the Steelers said in a statement. "As a precautionary measure, the Steelers designated bar that had been planned in Bastille – an area that has experienced recent disruptions – will not proceed."
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated on Wednesday that the league is coordinating with the U.S. Secretary of State on security plans for the game. "We’re continuing to make sure we have all available information, make sure the appropriate steps are being made," Goodell said. "We’re guests in the country. We’re going to be good guests."
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the heightened security considerations. "A lot of planning, a lot of extra conversations," Tomlin told reporters Wednesday. "Just because all the state of what surrounds the game."
The Saints arrived in France on Monday and have been practicing in Versailles, while the Steelers were expected to travel to Paris on Thursday evening. The Paris game is part of a record nine international contests for the NFL this season, aimed at expanding the league's presence in global markets.