NFL House closes in Paris as protests disrupt Steelers-Saints game weekend
Key Points:
- The NFL closed its NFL House fan hub and other fan events in Paris due to potential accessibility issues amid ongoing mass protests, ahead of the first regular-season NFL game in France between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints.
- French authorities deployed up to 70,000 officers and restricted demonstrations in Paris as protests over education and cost-of-living issues continue, with major metro stations and museums closed for security reasons.
- Despite the unrest, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and league officials confirmed the game would proceed as planned, emphasizing safety preparations and no serious consideration of cancellation or relocation.
- French President Emmanuel Macron met with NFL leadership to discuss the game and the NFL's long-term presence in Paris, underscoring the event's significance despite the challenging environment.
- The U.S. State Department issued a security alert advising Americans attending the game to exercise caution amid the protests, which have seen large-scale demonstrations and numerous arrests in Paris.