French authorities arrested more than 400 people after chaotic celebrations erupted across the country following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League final win over Arsenal.
Tens of thousands of police officers were mobilised to contain the violence, which disrupted public transport in the capital, including bus, train, and rail services. Fans set off fireworks and flares, and several officers were injured. Police responded with tear gas to clear crowds in central Paris.
Similar unrest occurred when PSG won the trophy last year, leading to deaths. This time, officials said they were better prepared. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez described the security plan as “very robust, very solid.”
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Shortly after PSG’s penalty shootout victory, the iconic Champs-Élysées was flooded with supporters. Videos showed flares lighting up the avenue, electric scooters and bikes burning, and at least one shop window smashed.
Earlier in the day, clashes also broke out near giant screens at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium. Police reported damage to six vehicles, two businesses, and a bus shelter.
By early Sunday, 416 people had been arrested nationwide, 280 of them in Paris. Nuñez said seven officers were injured and called the violence “absolutely unacceptable.”
Far-right leader Marine Le Pen wrote on X: “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.”
Players are scheduled to take part in a victory parade Sunday afternoon, including a tour of the Champ-de-Mars near the Eiffel Tower and a reception hosted by President Emmanuel Macron.
