The United States has issued a security alert for Americans travelling to France ahead of Sunday's NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints, warning them to avoid demonstrations and areas affected by unrest.
The match, scheduled for October 25, 2026, at Stade de France in Saint-Denis near Paris, will be the National Football League's first regular-season game in France. The warning comes amid concerns over violent protests, clashes between demonstrators and police, and reports of property damage and looting.
In a security alert, the US State Department's TravelGov account said demonstrations in France could continue over the weekend. Americans attending the game have been advised to stay alert, steer clear of large gatherings and avoid locations with a significant police presence.
The NFL has also been forced to cancel a Steelers fan event because of the unrest, according to the information provided.
US warns of clashes, tear gas and looting
The US government said recent demonstrations had involved property destruction, uncontrolled looting and attacks on police officers. Authorities responded with crowd-control measures, including the use of tear gas, the alert said.
The advisory urged Americans to avoid protest sites even when demonstrations were taking place along authorised routes. It also warned that protest locations and routes could change at short notice, potentially spreading disruption to other parts of the city.
The alert did not identify any specific threat against the NFL game or its spectators. Instead, it highlighted the wider security situation and urged visitors to exercise caution.
Planned demonstrations raise security concerns
Several groups have submitted plans to hold demonstrations on Saturday, October 24, according to the alert. French authorities have indicated they would restrict protests they consider illegitimate, while allowing demonstrations organised by groups such as trade unions to proceed.
The advisory also flagged planned marches in Orléans, where demonstrations were expected on Saturday and Sunday, according to media reports.
Curfews could remain in force in some parts of France, including certain neighbourhoods in Paris and surrounding areas. Local authorities can introduce such restrictions at short notice, potentially affecting movement and public gatherings.
What NFL fans travelling to Paris should know
Americans attending Sunday's game have been advised to monitor local announcements, avoid demonstrations and remain prepared for changes to protest routes and security arrangements.
The alert did not announce any cancellation or postponement of the Steelers-Saints game. It also did not indicate that the match was a specific target.
US citizens can check the American embassy's security updates at fr.usembassy.gov/security-alert before travelling to the venue.