The NFL has stopped at nothing to extend its influence overseas, but ahead of the league’s first ever game in France, it may have to contend with the French government. Amid widespread demonstrations throughout the country, French president Emmanuel Macron suggested this evening that continued protests could lead to a ban of public gatherings, according to Iona Cleave and Vivian Song of The Telegraph.
The NFL first played an game in another country in 2005, hosting a game in Mexico City. It debuted in London in 2007, later expanding to multiple London games per year. Grander plans for even more international destinations very quickly developed with Germany, Brazil, Ireland, Spain, Australia, and France all reaching deals for games to take place.
The Saints and Steelers are set to fly to Paris next week to play the country’s first ever NFL game at Stade de France. Similar to the NFC West battle down under to start the year, the two teams in this game have very different travel plans. The Steelers are planning to practice in Pittsburgh until flying to France on Thursday, while the Saints reportedly left for Paris immediately after their game in New York concluded today.
Unfortunately, protesting around the country has caused nation-wide unrest. Demonstrations with hundreds of thousands of citizens are being held as the people protest “rising living costs and poor conditions in schools,” per ESPN’s Katherine Terrell. Reportedly, masked groups set fires and attacked public building in several cities. As a result, police arrested at least 1,800 people across the country as “violent groups clashed with officers and looted shops.”
Per Terrell, a statement released by the NFL today said, “Preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France next Sunday. 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.”
The Saints released a statement disclosing that they, too, have maintained constant contact with their security partners in France, something the Steelers have likely invested in, as well. If Macron opts to ban public gatherings ahead of Sunday’s game, the NFL could see COVID-level attendance numbers for its latest international installation.