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NFL Keeps Paris Game on Schedule as French Protests Turn Violent

Escalating nationwide unrest has raised urgent questions about whether the Oct. 25 Steelers–Saints matchup will be relocated.

Overview

  • The NFL issued a statement saying preparations continue for the Oct. 25 game at Stade de France and that it is coordinating security with local authorities.
  • Protests that began over school conditions and the cost of living surged on Saturday, with roughly 550,000 people demonstrating and more than 1,200 arrests reported.
  • French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said 150 police officers were injured and described police facing "violence of extreme intensity."
  • League analysts say a relocation decision may be needed soon, with New Orleans or London named as the most realistic backup sites given home-team status and stadium availability.
  • Moving the game would create major logistical and broadcast headaches for the NFL, teams, and traveling fans and follows precedent for short-notice international changes such as the 2018 Mexico City-to-Los Angeles move.