Por Renan Filho · 2026-10-23**Lead** Former President Donald Trump criticized the NFL’s decision to schedule a regular-season game in Paris this year, arguing that the league “could’ve probably postponed” the event given the strain on French police forces from widespread protests. Speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump claimed the security situation in France made the game risky, adding that the NFL should have prioritized the safety of players, staff, and fans over commercial expansion.
**Context** France has been gripped by months of protests over pension reform and other domestic policies, leading to large-scale demonstrations and occasional clashes with law enforcement. The unrest has stretched police resources thin, with officers frequently deployed for crowd control and emergency response. The NFL, in its push to globalize the sport, had scheduled a regular-season game in Paris for the 2026 season – part of a broader international series that includes games in London, Mexico City, and Frankfurt. The league has not publicly commented on Trump’s remarks, but internal security assessments for the Paris game have been underway since the announcement.
Trump’s involvement is not without precedent. He previously clashed with the NFL over players kneeling during the national anthem, calling for boycotts and pressuring the league to enforce a rule requiring players to stand. His latest comments tie the safety concerns of the Paris game to broader criticisms of the Biden administration’s handling of international relations and security, though he did not directly link the two.
**Analysis** Trump’s statement underscores the delicate balance the NFL must strike when expanding into markets with political instability or social unrest. While the league has successfully staged games in London for years, the security environment in France during the current protest cycle is markedly different. Police unions have warned of fatigue and understaffing, raising questions about whether the already stretched forces can adequately secure a large-scale international event. The NFL typically relies on local authorities for security, and any shortfall could expose the league to liability and reputational risk.
From a geopolitical perspective, Trump’s comments also highlight the ongoing debate about the role of U.S. sports leagues as cultural ambassadors. Hosting an NFL game in a country grappling with domestic unrest can be seen as a vote of confidence in the host nation’s stability, but it can also be perceived as tone-deaf. The former president’s suggestion to postpone might resonate with some Americans wary of overseas commitments, while others may view it as interference in the league’s business decisions. The NFL has not indicated any intention to change its plans, but the controversy could prompt a review of security protocols and contingency plans.
**Fontes** This article is based on public remarks made by former President Donald Trump, as reported by major news outlets including Reuters, The Associated Press, and Fox News. Information on French protests and police strain comes from coverage by Agence France-Presse (AFP) and Le Monde. The NFL’s international schedule details are derived from official league announcements and prior news reports. No internal NFL or French government documents were used.