Security incidents and arrests in Paris following football final

The atmosphere in Paris grew increasingly volatile this Saturday as the final match between PSG and Arsenal drew to a close. Security operations were concentrated around the Porte de Saint-Cloud and the Champs-Élysées, where the first series of arrests took place during the late afternoon and evening hours.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that approximately a dozen individuals were detained in the immediate vicinity of the Parc des Princes, where the match was being broadcast to fans. High-level security measures had been established earlier in the day to manage the anticipated crowds across the capital’s most iconic locations.

Clashes erupt on the Champs-Élysées and near Châtelet

While the upper reaches of the Champs-Élysées were strictly cordoned off, disappointed PSG supporters gathered at the lower end of the avenue to follow the game on their smartphones. However, the gathering took a violent turn as clashes broke out between security forces and groups of rioters. During these confrontations, a bus shelter was destroyed, and projectiles were launched at officers.

Disturbances were not limited to the main avenue. Pyrotechnic mortars were reportedly fired in the 16th arrondissement along Avenue Kléber. Meanwhile, in the 18th arrondissement, groups of masked individuals carrying iron bars were observed moving through the streets, though no immediate acts of violence were recorded in that specific area at the time.

As the match entered its second half, significant crowd surges were reported near Châtelet and around the perimeter of the Parc des Princes. In both instances, law enforcement personnel deployed tear gas to break up the gatherings and restore order.

Dozens detained as authorities seize pyrotechnics

By 7:30 PM, security forces had conducted 1,579 individual checks, resulting in 64 fines. A total of 20 people were arrested, with 10 individuals held in police custody. Authorities also reported the seizure of 24 flares and two mortars. Property damage included another vandalized bus shelter on Avenue de la Boétie, just steps away from the Champs-Élysées.

Official estimates suggest that between 4,000 and 5,000 people had congregated near the main avenue during the game. While the majority were there for the sport, several groups targeted police with various projectiles.

At the Parc des Princes, a group of about 150 individuals attempted to force their way through one of the stadium’s entry gates. A rapid police intervention managed to push the group back, successfully calming the situation shortly thereafter.