Unrest Follows PSG’s Champions League Victory
More than 400 people faced arrest across France over the weekend after celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) Champions League victory turned chaotic. Authorities deployed a significant police presence to maintain order in Paris, disrupting public transport services throughout the city.
The events commenced with a pre-match performance by The Killers. PSG retained its European title by defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties in Budapest, with the match ending 1-1 after extra time. PSG became the second team in the modern era, after Real Madrid, to defend the trophy successfully.
Celebrating the win, PSG announced on social media, “wins a second consecutive Champions League and continues to write its legend, with all of its supporters.” The club urged fans to celebrate this historic moment responsibly and respectfully.
Police Intervention During Celebrations
Supporters gathered in large numbers across Paris, most prominently on the Champs-Élysées. Police intervened as fireworks and flares turned the festivities into disorder. Tear gas was used to disperse crowds, and several officers were injured during the unrest, reported the BBC.
Footage displayed illuminated night skies and urban damage, including burning electric bikes and vandalized properties. Notably, a shopfront window was smashed. A local journalist, Luc Affrette, shared a video showing a street fire as crowds moved and firefighters reacted. The clip has amassed over 1.4 million views. Another video showed riot police dealing with electric bikes tossed onto fires.
Confrontations at Parc des Princes
Tensions had earlier surfaced at PSG’s stadium, where fans viewing the match on large screens clashed with police. During the chaos, six vehicles, two businesses, and a bus shelter were damaged. Authorities reported 416 arrests nationwide, including 280 in Paris.
Repeating Last Season’s Incidents
Similar incidents occurred last year following PSG’s victory. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez noted improvements in security measures this time, though the latest riots were termed “absolutely unacceptable.”
French far-right politician Marine Le Pen remarked on social media, condemning the recurring chaos despite enhanced security arrangements. She expressed support for the police, gendarmes, and firefighters who ensured public safety.
The unrest will likely initiate renewed scrutiny of crowd control strategies around major football events in Paris and other cities.