Mass Arrests After PSG's Champions League Win
Following Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) victory over Arsenal in the Champions League final, clashes erupted between football fans and police across France, resulting in more than 400 arrests. The unrest notably disrupted bus, train, and rail services in Paris, where thousands of officers were deployed to manage the situation.
During the celebrations, fireworks and flares were ignited, contributing to the disorder. Several police officers sustained injuries amid the confrontations, and law enforcement used tear gas to disperse crowds gathered in the city centre.
Similar violence occurred when PSG secured the same trophy last year, with celebrations that turned deadly. However, authorities this time implemented a
"very robust, very solid system in place", according to Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez.
Paris's iconic Champs-Élysées was flooded with fans shortly after PSG won in a penalty shootout. Footage from the city shows flares being set off, electric bikes burning on the roads, and revelers breaking the glass of at least one shopfront.
Clashes at Parc des Princes and Property Damage
Earlier in the day, police clashed with supporters who had gathered at PSG's Parc des Princes to watch the final on giant screens. Authorities reported that six vehicles, two businesses, and a bus shelter suffered damage during the unrest.
By the early hours of Sunday, police confirmed that 416 individuals had been arrested nationwide, including 280 in Paris alone. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez stated that seven officers were injured and described the disturbances as
"absolutely unacceptable".
Political Reactions and Upcoming Victory Parade
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen commented on the situation via X, stating:
"Only in France does a football club's victory spark riots."
"Only in France does everyone feel compelled to lock themselves in their homes on the evening of a victory to avoid being confronted with violence,"
Despite the unrest, PSG players are scheduled to participate in a victory parade on Sunday afternoon. The celebrations will include a tour of the Champ-de-Mars near the Eiffel Tower and a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
