MUSKETEERS FORGE LINK WITH NFL’S SAINTS
The Paris Musketeers have formed a groundbreaking strategic partnership with the NFL’s New Orleans Saints which aims to uniting fan bases, enhance cross-continental football experiences and foster the growth of American football in Europe.
The Musketeers, established in 2022, have quickly emerged as a competitive force in the European League of Football, showcasing a dedication to excellence and already boasting a growing fan base in France, and the partnership with the Saints will provide opportunities for shared training programmes and coaching exchanges, amongst other initiatives.
The collaboration will also encompass co-branded events, fan engagement activities and community programmes in both New Orleans and Paris, as the two teams seek to create immersive experiences for fans, such as player meet-and-greets, youth football clinics and cultural exchange events that celebrate the rich heritage of both teams, as well as the development of digital content tailored to engage fans in both markets.
“We are proud to announce our partnership with the Paris Musketeers, a collaboration that reflects our ongoing commitment to growing the game of football globally,” Saints president Dennis Lauscha said. “This strategic alliance provides a valuable opportunity to expand the reach of the Saints brand, engage with the French audience and share the rich tradition and passion of our organisation with fans around the world.”
Further details about upcoming events and initiatives resulting from the partnership will be announced in the coming months but, with the collaboration underscoring a mutual commitment to innovation, community involvement, and the global expansion of American football, Musketeers CEO John McKeon is enthusiastic about what the alliance can achieve.
“Joining forces with the New Orleans Saints is a significant milestone for our organisation,” he noted. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that will not only enhance the fan experience, but also contribute to the development of American football in France and beyond. One of our first joint initiatives will be the launch of a half-time flag football series with local youth groups at our home games this season.”
The Musketeers open their 2025 season on May 17th when they host the ELF’s defending ELF champions, Rhine Fire, at Stade Robert Bobin, a matchup that pits new Musketeers’ head coach — and erstwhile Saints player — Jack Del Rio against the Fire’s Jim Tomsula, making it the first ELF contest between two former NFL head coaches.
(Image courtesy Daniel Schrick)