France: Rugby World Cup to continue nationwide, Oct. 18-28 /update 2

Event

France will continue to host the Rugby World Cup Oct. 18-28. Authorities are running an extensive and visible security operation to safeguard the event. Public interest in the competition is high, and matches will likely continue to be screened in public places, including hotels, throughout the country. The tournament's semi-final matches will be played Oct. 20-21 at the Stade de France, Paris-Saint Denis. The play-off and final matches will also be played at the Stade de France, Oct. 27-28. A list of fixtures is at the Rugby World Cup official website here. Authorities are likely to deploy further enhanced security measures during the final matches of the tournament.

As of Oct. 18, the matches and associated events have passed off peacefully. However, the terrorist threat level was raised in France to "Attack Emergency", Oct. 13, following the killing of a teacher. French officials also responded to pro-Palestinian demonstrations and a number of bomb threats at schools nationwide and at cultural centers, including the Louvre Museum and Chateau of Versailles. Authorities increased border security between Belgium and France on Oct. 16. Security levels are likely to remain elevated in coming days.

Security forces have been preparing for the event for months, and there will be a significant and visible security deployment at transport hubs, match venues, and city centers nationwide. Increased scrutiny could prompt processing delays at airports and border crossings. Additional security measures around World Cup matches, including security cordons and traffic restrictions, as well as the increased numbers of travelers, will likely prompt travel disruption in host cities.

Terrorism
France faces an underlying threat from terrorism following large-scale attacks in 2015-2016. However, the country's capable security forces mitigate the risk of any terrorist activities.

Advice

Plan on localized transit disruptions in affected cities, throughout the Rugby World Cup tournament. Comply with enhanced security procedures. Allow additional time for travel and security procedures in the vicinity of events. Remain aware of the possibility of civil unrest.