Earlier in the season, the NFL marked a significant milestone by holding its first regular-season game in Australia, expanding its international presence beyond England. The 2026-27 season will witness a notable increase in games played outside the United States, featuring matches not only in Australia and England but also in France, Brazil, Spain, Germany, and Mexico.
As the NFL prepares for its inaugural game in the Paris region, social unrest and protests in France have entered their third week. This creates a complex security context for the event. Despite these challenges, the league confirmed the game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints is still slated for Oct. 25 at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris.
“We’re excited for the first-ever regular season game in Paris, and preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France on Oct. 25,” the NFL stated in a release provided to ESPN.
The NFL has relocated games in the past, though typically due to severe weather or poor field conditions. This ongoing situation in France involves demands for significant reforms in the country’s education system. Protesters are targeting issues such as under-resourced schools, declining facilities, and teacher shortages. Reports noted dilapidated buildings and sightings of rats, which have fueled protests.
Some protests have escalated to violence, leading French authorities to respond with tear gas and stun grenades, according to CBS News. France is also gearing up for presidential elections set for the coming spring.
In the upcoming game in France, the New Orleans Saints will serve as the designated home team. They are currently on a three-game losing streak heading into their Week 6 confrontation with the New York Giants.
Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers secured their third victory on Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Their upcoming matchup will be against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, fresh from their first win of the year against the Dallas Cowboys.
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