Trump Questions NFL’s Paris Game as Protests Raise Security Concerns in France
SAINT-DENIS, FRANCE — October 25, 2026: U.S. President Donald Trump has questioned the decision to proceed with the National Football League’s historic regular-season game in France amid nationwide protests and security concerns.
The Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints were scheduled to meet at the Stade de France, just north of Paris, in the NFL’s first regular-season game hosted in France. Trump told reporters that the league could have considered postponing the event, arguing that France was facing a difficult situation because of the unrest.
Security Concerns Affect Other Events
Although the NFL game remained on schedule, concerns about demonstrations and recent disorder led to changes elsewhere. A planned Steelers fan event in Paris’s Bastille neighbourhood was cancelled as a precaution following disruptions in the area.
French football authorities also moved Paris Saint-Germain’s Ligue 1 match against Lyon from Sunday to Monday after a request from police. The decision reflected the pressure on local authorities to manage security during a busy weekend of demonstrations and major sporting events.
U.S. Officials Urge Visitors to Stay Alert
The U.S. State Department advised Americans attending the NFL game to exercise caution, remain aware of their surroundings and avoid areas where demonstrations or unrest might occur. Officials warned that protest routes can change at short notice and that gatherings may take place outside authorised routes.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said preparations had been coordinated with French and U.S. authorities. The league maintained that it was continuing its security planning and working with the teams and local partners.
Game Proceeds Despite Protests
Sunday reporting indicated that the game proceeded as planned. Reuters reported that the atmosphere around the stadium in Saint-Denis was calm and festive, despite clashes reported in parts of Paris and Marseille following Saturday’s demonstrations.
The episode highlights the challenge of staging major international sporting events during periods of public unrest. While Trump questioned the timing of the game, the NFL and local authorities continued with the event under heightened security arrangements.
Sources:
Associated Press — Trump questions the NFL’s Paris game amid civil unrest
Reuters — Paris game proceeds amid demonstrations
NFL / Associated Press — Security measures for the Steelers-Saints game
The Guardian — State Department alert and event security concerns
Editorial note: NGN News distinguishes political statements from independently reported developments. The game proceeded as planned, while some related events were cancelled or rescheduled. Details are based on reporting available on October 25, 2026.
