The upcoming NFL international game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New Orleans Saints in Paris, France, is under threat due to domestic disturbances.

The city of Paris was covered in fires and tear gas on October 17 as residents launched nationwide protests against the rising living costs and deteriorating public services. Paris alone saw an estimated 110,000 protesters take the streets as police tried to contain the situation.

With the Steelers and Saints scheduled to play against each other at Stade de France in Paris on October 25, there are concerns over player safety in a trying time for France.

Fans want the NFL to protect the players and cancel Steelers vs. Saints in France

The NFL issued a statement to confirm that the Steelers vs. Saints game in Paris will go ahead as scheduled despite the rioting in the city.

“We’re excited for the first-ever regular season game in Paris, and preparations continue as scheduled for NFL events and the game at Stade de France on October 25. As we do for every NFL game, including our international games, we work closely with local authorities and partners on all operational and security matters. We look forward to welcoming fans to Paris later this month.”

The decision not to postpone the game, if not relocate it to the States, has generated a negative reaction on social media.

“Goodell doesn’t care lol,” said one fan about NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

“Maybe we shouldn’t be having international games,” said another fan.

“This game seriously does not need to happen,” were the thoughts of a fan.

“People are rioting because they can’t afford necessities, but yes! Let’s continue with an American football game over there cause why not? Lol,” said another fan who thinks the game needs to be cancelled.

“How about the NFL protect its players and organisations and keep them stateside for this one!” demanded another fan.

While the NFL will be hoping the protests start to wind down by next Sunday, when the Saints and Steelers are scheduled to play, they will have to deal with immense fan scrutiny if they go ahead with the game, even without an improvement in the situation in France.