Celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League final victory over Arsenal descended into violence across France, leaving hundreds injured and prompting a major police response.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez confirmed that 219 people were injured during clashes between supporters and police, while 780 arrests were made nationwide. More than 450 individuals remained in police custody following the disturbances.
The unrest erupted after PSG secured European football’s biggest prize, with thousands of supporters gathering in Paris and other cities to celebrate the historic triumph.
Widespread Disorder Across France
Authorities reported that the violence disrupted public transport services in the French capital, affecting buses, trains and rail networks.
A total of 57 police officers were injured while attempting to restore order and prevent further disturbances.
One person was also killed in an accident on Paris’ ring road after rioters attempted to block traffic during the night.
According to officials, eight of the injured were reported to be in serious condition.
Images and videos shared on social media showed clashes between police and groups of supporters, with tear gas deployed in several areas of Paris.
Massive Security Operation Underway
French authorities had already anticipated potential trouble following the Champions League final and deployed thousands of officers across the country.
Security measures have now been intensified ahead of PSG’s official victory parade, with approximately 6,000 police officers mobilised around Paris on Sunday.
The celebrations are expected to centre around the Eiffel Tower area, where large crowds are anticipated.
Officials have described the match celebrations as a high-risk security event, similar to previous major football triumphs in France.
Interior Minister Warns Troublemakers
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez defended the strong police response and stressed that the majority of supporters celebrated peacefully.
“We are a great country for maintaining public order. We allow freedom of assembly, but not excesses,” he said.
Nuñez added that many of those involved in the violence were not genuine football supporters but individuals who used the occasion to cause disorder.
He warned that authorities would continue taking a firm approach against anyone involved in riots or vandalism during the celebrations.
PSG Triumph Overshadowed By Violence
While PSG supporters celebrated the club’s Champions League success, the scenes of disorder overshadowed what should have been one of the biggest nights in the club’s history.
The incidents have drawn comparisons with previous large-scale football celebrations in France, where authorities also faced challenges controlling crowds and preventing violence.
Police investigations into the disturbances are ongoing, with further arrests expected as officers review footage captured during the clashes.
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