Paris celebrates psg’s champions league win with heavy clashes and arrests
The victory of Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League final sparked widespread celebrations across Paris, but these quickly escalated into violent clashes with law enforcement.
Nearly 300 individuals were detained in the French capital following disturbances that erupted as supporters gathered to mark the historic win. The unrest, which included clashes with police, looting, and property damage, prompted authorities to deploy a substantial security force to maintain order.
authorities report extensive damage and injuries
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed that 416 arrests were made nationwide, with 283 in the Paris metropolitan area alone. He condemned the violence as “absolutely unacceptable” and highlighted the severe injuries sustained by law enforcement officers, including a critically injured officer in Agen who suffered a traumatic brain injury.
The disturbances were not confined to the capital. In cities such as Rennes, Strasbourg, Clermont-Ferrand, and Grenoble, incidents of looting and vandalism were reported, further straining police resources.
security measures and chaotic scenes
The Paris Police Prefecture (PP) reported seizing 24 torches and over 100 fireworks, while several vehicles and businesses were damaged. A bakery and a restaurant near Porte de Saint-Cloud were particularly targeted. Journalists on the ground described continuous fireworks and individuals climbing onto fire trucks, illustrating the chaotic nature of the celebrations.
Efforts to block major roads, including the Périphérique, were swiftly countered by police, who managed to clear the routes without major delays. Clashes near the Champs-Élysées saw projectiles thrown at officers, where an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 fans had gathered before thousands more arrived post-match.
In a particularly brazen incident, a group attempted to storm a police station in the 8th arrondissement before being dispersed. A stabbing incident was also reported in Barbès, while an intoxicated man reportedly fell into the Seine River in the 5th arrondissement.
transport disruptions and enhanced security
With 22,000 police and gendarmerie officers deployed—8,000 in Paris and its suburbs—authorities emphasized their commitment to ensuring a safe and orderly celebration. The Paris Police Prefecture had previously warned of potential unrest, stressing the need for “reactivity, engagement, and firmness.”
Public transport faced significant disruptions, with many metro and bus lines suspended to safeguard passengers and drivers. IDF Mobilités stated that the network was severely impacted due to the sheer volume of gatherings.
By comparison, last year’s Champions League final saw 5,400 officers deployed in Paris, resulting in 563 arrests and 307 detentions in the capital.
parade and presidential reception
The PSG players are scheduled to participate in a victory parade on Champs-de-Mars on Sunday afternoon, where attendance is expected to reach nearly 100,000. Following the event, they will be received by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.
