The NFL is moving forward with its game in Paris, France next week, despite growing unrest in the country.
The Saints are scheduled to host the Steelers in Paris next weekend. The game will be taking place in Paris, where thousands have been arrested due to violent protests that have broken out, with many voicing frustration toward cost of living, school qualities and more.
NFL fans have questioned if this is the right move to play the game.
“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 October 25. As we do for every NFL game, including our international games, we work closely with local authorities and partners on all operational and security matters. We look forward to welcoming fans to Paris later this month,” the NFL said on Wednesday.
The NFL doubled down on Sunday, too.
“Preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France next Sunday,” an NFL spokesperson said via email on Sunday morning.
“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.”
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ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter confirmed.
“We concur with the NFL’s statement and are planning to play the game. In addition to working closely with the NFL, we have also maintained daily security updates with our security partners in France,” Saints executive Greg Bensel said.
“Members of our football operations staff and internal security team have been on the ground in France for the past few days and there has been no disruption or impact at any of our team sites.”
NFL fans are ripping the league for the ruling, though
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy is among those bashing the league.
“This seems incredibly stupid,” he wrote on X.
One fan added: “This seems crazy.. What happens if people find out where players are for lunch or dinner and decide to riot there?”
The NFL is playing a ton of overseas games for money
Former NFL head coach Jon Gruden told Barstool Sports podcast “Pardon My Take” that he and every other current and former head coach “hates” playing games overseas, due to how difficult it can be.
However, Gruden admitted – the league doesn’t really care about the players or the coaches in this department.
Ultimately, it’s about money, and growing the game overseas means a lot more money for everyone involved.
