NFL proceeds with Steelers-Saints game in Paris despite protests and security concerns

The Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints opened the NFL’s inaugural regular-season game in France on Sunday at Stade de France, despite widespread protests and civil unrest in Paris that forced the cancellation of the league’s scheduled fan activities. Police estimated that around 110,000 demonstrators, including students, workers, farmers and various activist groups, took to the streets on Saturday, leading to numerous arrests and the postponement of a domestic soccer match.

The stadium was close to capacity at kickoff, and the league said it had extensive security plans in place. NFL executive vice president for Club Business and International Peter O'Reilly said the organization was "vigilant" about the situation but remained confident that the event could proceed safely. Commissioner Roger Goodell added that he had been in contact with the U.S. Department of State and with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who told the league that both the U.S. Embassy and French authorities believed the game would be "fine."

President Donald Trump expressed concern about the match, stating he was "worried about it" and suggesting the NFL could have postponed the game. The league, however, responded that it would go ahead as planned.

Players also voiced mixed feelings about international games. Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf told reporters in France that he does not enjoy traveling abroad for football, saying, "No, sir, because I really don't like traveling outside the U.S. to play football."

The game proceeded without reported security incidents, marking a notable moment for the NFL’s expansion efforts amid a turbulent backdrop in the host city.