The National Football League played its first regular-season game in France on Sunday, as the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the New Orleans Saints 16-10 at the Stade de France in Paris. The milestone matchup marked the 68th international regular-season game hosted outside the United States since the league began expanding its global series in 2007.
Played against the backdrop of nationwide social mobilization and security deployments across France, the fixture drew 78,000 spectators to the northern suburb of Saint-Denis. The event served as the latest stop in an international strategy that has previously brought games to London, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, Germany, and Spain.
Stade de France Hosts Historic NFL Debut Amid Paris Security Context
League officials monitored local conditions closely throughout the week following nationwide demonstrations and nearly 1,000 arrests across France on Saturday. NFL Roger Goodell stated Wednesday that local protests were not unusual and that necessary security arrangements would be implemented to proceed with the fixture.
Despite transit disruptions and security concerns in the region, large numbers of traveling fans arrived early at the stadium perimeter. Shantella Smith, a supporter who traveled from New Orleans, said security conditions did not deter her from making the trip. “We are not worried, we come from New Orleans, that’s where there is violence so no, we are not worried at all,” she told Agence France-Presse.
French sports stars participated in the pre-game ceremonies, with judoka Teddy Riner and rugbyman Antoine Dupont serving as patrons for the event. Paul Pogba attended the stadium in a media capacity, working as a photographer for the NFL.
Aaron Rodgers Guides Pittsburgh Past New Orleans in Hard-Fought Contest
On the field, the Steelers established an early rhythm directed by 42-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers. In the first half, Rodgers connected on a scoring pass that recorded the first-ever regular-season touchdown by the NFL on French soil. Pittsburgh built a 13-10 advantage by halftime following a competitive opening two quarters.
The contest maintained its physical nature into the second half as the Steelers defensive unit contained the Saints offense. New Orleans failed to generate scoring opportunities in the final two quarters, allowing Pittsburgh to run down the clock and secure the six-point victory.
During the halftime interval, Nigerian singer Burna Boy delivered an entertainment set on the stadium field. The performance featured selections from his catalog without guest appearances.
Throughout the afternoon, the stands at the Stade de France featured traditional yellow Terrible Towels carried by Steelers supporters, alongside banners from traveling fan groups. The attendance figures and operational execution from Sunday indicate the league intends to evaluate the Paris venue for potential inclusion in future international scheduling cycles.
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