No fewer than 416 people were arrested across France after celebrations of Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) UEFA Champions League triumph descended into violence, authorities said on Sunday. Thousands of police officers were deployed across Paris and other parts of the country to contain unrest that disrupted road, rail and bus services in the French capital following PSG's historic victory over Arsenal in the final.
Celebrations erupted immediately after PSG secured the title, with supporters flooding streets and public squares across France. However, parts of the festivities turned violent as some fans clashed with security forces, set off fireworks and flares, and damaged public and private property. In Paris, police used tear gas to disperse crowds in parts of the city centre after confrontations broke out between supporters and law enforcement personnel. Authorities reported that several police officers were injured during the disturbances.
The iconic Champs-Élysées avenue was packed with jubilant fans shortly after the final whistle. Videos shared on social media showed flares being ignited, electric motorcycles set ablaze, and damage to commercial properties in the area. Earlier in the evening, clashes were also reported around PSG's home ground, the Parc des Princes, where thousands of supporters had gathered to watch the match on giant screens. French police said six vehicles, two businesses and a bus shelter were damaged during the unrest.
According to official figures released by authorities, 416 people were arrested nationwide in the early hours of Sunday, including 280 in Paris alone. French Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, said seven police officers sustained injuries during the disturbances. He condemned the violence, describing it as 'absolutely unacceptable.' Despite the incidents, Nuñez said authorities had implemented a 'very robust' security operation aimed at preventing a repeat of the more serious disorder that followed previous major football celebrations in France.
Reacting to the violence, Marine Le Pen criticized those involved in the unrest, stating on social media that it was unacceptable for a football victory to trigger riots and public disorder. Meanwhile, PSG players are expected to participate in a victory parade in Paris on Sunday. The celebrations are set to include events around the Champ-de-Mars near the Eiffel Tower and a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
PSG's victory marked a historic milestone for the club, securing its first-ever UEFA Champions League title and sparking widespread celebrations among supporters across France. However, the scenes of violence and vandalism have overshadowed what was expected to be a night of unrestrained jubilation for the club and its fans.
