The National Football League is set to host its first-ever regular season game in France, with the New Orleans Saints facing the Pittsburgh Steelers on October 25, 2026. The matchup will take place at the Stade de France, the country’s largest stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 AM CST (2:30 PM CEST). This event marks the latest expansion of the NFL’s international series, following the league’s history of playing games in London, England.
Stade de France to Host NFL Debut
The Stade de France, located in Saint-Denis, will serve as the venue for this historic contest. Built in 1998, the facility has a long history of hosting major international sporting events, including the FIFA World Cup, the Rugby World Cup, UEFA Champions League Finals, and the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. According to the NFL, the stadium was selected for its capacity to host global entertainment and sports, having previously welcomed artists such as Beyoncé, U2, and The Rolling Stones.
Historical Ties and Cultural Significance
For the New Orleans Saints, the trip to Paris holds specific cultural relevance. Saints Owner Gayle Benson noted that the organization’s relationship with France is “centuries deep,” framing the game as a meaningful step in strengthening cultural and economic ties between Louisiana and the French nation. Beyond the game itself, the team is partnering with the NFL’s ongoing flag football initiatives in France, which the league reports have grown rapidly and currently engage thousands of young athletes.
A Familiar Stage for the Saints
While this is the first NFL regular season game held in France, it is not the Saints’ first time playing abroad. The franchise has appeared in three previous international regular season contests, all of which were held in London, England. Those appearances occurred in 2008, 2017, and 2022. The 2026 game in Paris continues the team’s participation in the league’s broader strategy to grow its fanbase in European markets.
Game Logistics and Follow-up
The game is being produced in partnership with GL events. Fans looking to follow the latest developments regarding ticket availability and broadcast information should monitor official updates from the New Orleans Saints and the NFL. As the October 25 date approaches, the league is expected to release further details concerning fan engagement events and the specific broadcast network covering the game in the United States and abroad.
The Saints-Steelers matchup stands as a milestone for the league’s global footprint. Supporters and observers can track the official progress of the 2026 NFL schedule through the league’s official communications channels.
