NFL, Saints address plans for Paris game during Week 6 as protests escalate in France

Protests escalated in France over the weekend over living costs and education, raising concerns over the NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints scheduled to take place in Paris next week. The unrest stems in part from citizens demanding better school conditions, teacher shortages and public services, but it has since grown as violent groups have rioted, clashed with police, and set fire to public buildings. At least 1,800 across the country, according to CBS News.

Hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets across the nation to demand change from the government, as both protesters and law enforcement have turned to violent methods. Concern over player, personnel, and fan safety has become the main topic surrounding next week's international game, the first-ever regular-season matchup to take place in France.

The league released a statement last week saying they still plan to conduct the game as scheduled on Oct. 25 and provided a similar update on Sunday after news of the social unrest spread.

"Preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France next Sunday," the NFL said. "We continue to work closely with local authorities and partners on all operational and…

Original source: https://www.cbssports.com/