The continuing social unrest in Paris has cast doubt over the Steelers-Saints game scheduled to take place there in almost a week. This has sparked increasing worry about the safety of fans and players, leaving some to question whether the league will change its plans.
However, with still over a week left for the New Orleans Saints vs. Pittsburgh Steelers to take place, the NFL has officially addressed the situation. The NFL clarified on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026, that the scheduled game between the Saints and the Steelers will take place as planned on Oct. 25, 2026, at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis in north 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 October 25,” the NFL said in a statement, via ESPN. “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 social unrest in the French capital currently stems from demands for the government to change numerous aspects of the country's education system. Protesters want the government to resolve the problems of poorly-resourced schools, bad conditions, and teacher shortages. Students have also complained about schools falling apart and an abundance of rats in the buildings.
The protests in the city have resulted in violence, with the French authorities using tear gas, stun grenades, and other means to stop the crowd. Also, according to reports, the protesters have set fires and caused damage, resulting in the arrest of over 5000 people.
Seeing a lot of concern about the protests in Paris, fan/team safety and what that could mean for the Steelers-Saints game there next week. The NFL is proceeding with the game and events as scheduled.
League statement to ESPN: "We're excited for the first-ever regular season… pic.twitter.com/TyzAGdCs5h
— Brooke Pryor (@bepryor) October 14, 2026