Aaron Rodgers expects NFL Paris game to proceed despite local unrest

The National Football League is moving forward with its first regular-season game in Paris on Sunday, despite security concerns caused by recent violent protests in France. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers told reporters on Friday that the league would have cancelled the matchup against the New Orleans Saints if the situation was unsafe. France 24 and The Guardian both reported his statements following the team's arrival in the French capital. [1][2][5]

Rodgers expressed full confidence in the league's security precautions speaking from a hotel in Paris, the New York Post reported. The league confirmed that preparations for the game at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis are continuing as planned. The New York Post added that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has remained in direct contact with local authorities in Paris regarding safety measures. [1][2]

Security concerns surround the capital after France experienced severe urban unrest in recent days, leading President Emmanuel Macron to tighten restrictions on public demonstrations, according to France 24. The Guardian reported that Paris Saint-Germain cancelled a soccer match due to the escalating turmoil, while United States authorities issued a security warning for visiting American fans. [1][5]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, the Steelers arrived in France on Friday morning after flying from Pennsylvania. The team subsequently cancelled a scheduled practice session at the Stade de France due to poor weather, alongside a planned fan event in the city. [14]

Sunday's game remains scheduled to take place at the Stade de France, marking the league's inaugural regular-season fixture in France. France 24 and the New York Post both reported that kickoff between the Steelers and Saints will proceed as planned on Sunday. [1][2]