NFL Insider Explains Why League ‘Never’ Considered Moving Steelers-Saints Game Out of Paris originally appeared on SportsNet Pittsburgh. Add SportsNet Pittsburgh as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The NFL is sending a clear message about the league’s first-ever game in Paris. Despite recent civil unrest, Sunday’s contest between the Steelers and Saints will be played as scheduled.
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NFL Network insider Judy Battista reported that the NFL “never” considered moving or postponing the game. Protests and riots have erupted in Paris as French citizens expressed frustration about poor school conditions and rising living costs.
Battista noted that Steelers owner Art Rooney II feels “comfortable” with the status of the game, which will be held at Stade de France, a stadium located north of central Paris in Saint-Denis.
“[The Steelers have] had people on the ground there for a few days,” Battista said. “The team doesn’t get there until Friday. The Saints have been there all week. By the way, the team hotels are away from central Paris. The stadium is actually not near where the unrest is happening.”
While the Steelers and Saints will not be staying near the primary demonstration areas, more protests are planned for the weekend. The NFL will continue to work with the teams as well as local authorities in order to ensure the safety of players and fans on Sunday.
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“There is a big protest planned for Saturday, the day before the game,” Battista said. “The NFL has emphasized, though, they always have very big security outfits at international games, and obviously, it’s going to be even more heightened for this with the civil unrest going on. But the NFL feels comfortable going forward.”
