Hegseth’s office sought to cancel U.S. military participation in the NFL’s first-ever Paris game, but Pentagon restored a limited ceremonial role

Pete Hegseth’s office attempted to cancel U.S. military participation in the NFL’s first-ever game in Paris this weekend, citing protests and unrest in France, WaPo reported.

The Pentagon initially moved to withdraw dozens of military personnel scheduled to take part in Sunday’s game between the New Orleans Saints and Pittsburgh Steelers at Stade de France.

The State Department intervened, arguing that U.S. military participation had diplomatic value and that security risks to American personnel were relatively low. The Pentagon then agreed to restore limited ceremonial participation, including a military color guard.