Saints Fans Head to France for NFL Game Amid Concerns

Supporters of the New Orleans Saints are traveling to France. The journey started early Tuesday with an Air France charter flight that included Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry. The flight was set to land at Charles de Gaulle Airport near Paris. The governor, dressed in a hoodie featuring the Saints’ fleur-de-lis symbol, departed from Louis Armstrong Airport on Monday night. He spoke to reporters before boarding the flight, noting he was accompanied by several people who would spend the week in France before the Saints’ NFL game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. This match is scheduled for Sunday at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.

The trip involves safety considerations due to recent street unrest in France. Landry expressed confidence in the trip’s safety, partially because the Saints carried their Super Bowl XLIV Lombardi Trophy along. Landry stated, “We’ve communicated with the State Department and our partners there. The NFL collaborates well with the FBI, Department of Justice, and Interpol, ensuring security for new stadiums.” He indicated the NFL had confirmed everything was secure, allowing the team and fans from Louisiana to enjoy the experience.

The NFL released a statement confirming the game would proceed as planned. Preparations for NFL events at the Stade de France continue, despite unrest in Paris. The organization is working with local authorities and partners on security issues, giving regular updates to the involved teams. Despite this, the official statement did not expressly state safety assurances.

After their recent game, the Saints headed to France. Many fans are following them. The Steelers have arranged their flight to France for Thursday. Earlier, they held a Zoom meeting with the league, attended by players, coaches, and Steelers owner Art Rooney II. Steelers coach Mike McCarthy explained this as standard planning for international trips. He assured fans of their awareness and confidence in the current situation.

Meanwhile, New Orleans players in France enjoyed a day off on Tuesday. They planned various activities, including attending a Paris Saint-Germain FC soccer match. This happens as Paris and other cities experience violence-related curfews, resulting in closed businesses and attractions.

Landry plans to conduct business during this trip. He expressed excitement while mentioning scheduled meetings with executives from Shell, BP, and others. He also aims to meet NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, who will attend the game. Landry intends to discuss bringing another Super Bowl to New Orleans.