Full Breakdown
NFL's First Regular-Season Game in France: Steelers vs. Saints
5/14/2026, 11:44:09 PM
Core Event – Game Details
The NFL announced the Pittsburgh Steelers will play the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026 (Week 7) at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, Paris. Kickoff is 2:30 p.m. CET (9:30 a.m. ET). American Express presents the game; On Location sells ticket-and-travel packages.
Background & Context – NFL Global Expansion and French Partnerships
The Paris contest is the NFL’s first regular-season game in France and the Steelers’ second overseas appearance after the 2025 Dublin Game. The 2026 schedule features nine international games in four continents, seven countries and eight stadiums, reflecting the league’s global-growth plan. France’s NFL fan base exceeds 14 million, and NFL Flag, launched in 2023, serves over 8,000 youth participants.
Data & Statistics
Nine 2026 international games will be held in four continents, seven countries and eight stadiums. France’s NFL audience exceeds 14 million; NFL Flag reaches over 8,000 youth. Flag football will debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Official Statements & Responses
Steelers President Art Rooney II said the Steelers are honored to represent the NFL in Paris. NFL Head of Europe & Asia Pacific Brett Gosper called the game a new chapter in the league’s global expansion. Saints owner Gayle Benson highlighted cultural ties between Louisiana and France. French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari called the event a historic milestone for France’s international sporting profile. GL events CEO Christophe Cizeron said the Stade de France aims to be a leading global venue while supporting its local community.
Verbatim Quotes
- "We're honored to represent the Pittsburgh Steelers and the NFL in the League's first-ever game in Paris this upcoming season." — Art Rooney II, Steelers President
- "The highly anticipated 2026 NFL Paris game is an exciting new chapter in the league's global growth efforts." — Brett Gosper, NFL Head of Europe & Asia Pacific
- "It is a privilege for the New Orleans Saints to take part in the NFL's first regular season game in France." — Gayle Benson, Saints Owner
- "Hosting the National Football League's first regular-season game in France marks a historic milestone and serves as a powerful symbol of our country's international sporting influence." — Marina Ferrari, French Minister of Sports, Youth and Community Life
On-the-Ground Perspectives
Linebacker Payton Wilson called the Paris trip “super cool” and said he’s excited to travel with teammates. Linebacker Alex Highsmith said the game offers exposure that will grow the sport’s fan base. Defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day said the experience lets players visit a new culture and play before different fans.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The sources present a consistent schedule and participant list; no contradictory figures were identified, though details on ticket pricing and expected attendance were not disclosed.
What's Next
Following the Paris contest, the NFL will stage games in Melbourne, Rio de Janeiro, London, Madrid, Munich and Mexico City. Flag football’s Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games is highlighted as a key milestone, and the league continues to explore additional overseas venues as part of its expansion roadmap.
