NFL Commissioner Confident About Game in France Amid Protests

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced on Wednesday that he will soon head to France for the first-ever NFL game there. He expressed confidence that the event will be safe, attributing this assurance to United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who confirmed to OutKick that he had discussed the situation with Goodell.

Speaking at the conclusion of the Fall League Meeting in New York, Goodell stated, “We’re involved at the highest levels both in France on a global basis with our officials here.” He emphasized the ongoing communication with authorities, noting, “We’re guests in the country. We’re going to be good guests. I’m confident they’re going to do their part too.”

Rubio also conveyed to OutKick and Fox News Digital that he believed the game would proceed without issues, saying, “Our embassy feels the game will be fine. We have no indication the game will be impacted in any way.” However, he clarified that he won’t be attending the game, adding, “I was never planning to go anyway.”

Goodell reiterated the NFL’s stance regarding hosting the game in France, despite the civil unrest characterized by protests and property damage. He conveyed a high level of comfort, saying, “Very high is my comfort level. We’ve made all the preparations and have been in touch with all the appropriate authorities.” He also remarked that protests are relatively common in France and that they are taking precautions to be aware of the situation.

Media reports indicate that a significant protest is planned for Saturday, just a day before the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to face off against the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France on Sunday. The stadium is located about 20 miles from downtown Paris, where recent protests have occurred.

The Saints arrived in France on Monday and have had no incidents reported, while the Steelers are expected to depart from Western Pennsylvania on Thursday and arrive the following day.