French authorities arrested more than 400 people after celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League triumph descended into violence, vandalism, and clashes with security forces across several parts of the country.
According to figures released by France’s Interior Ministry, 416 people were arrested nationwide, with 283 of those detentions recorded in Paris, where thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate PSG’s victory over Arsenal in the Champions League final.
The unrest broke out shortly after the final whistle, despite the deployment of thousands of police officers and security personnel across the French capital and other major cities.
In Paris, large crowds gathered along the Champs-Élysées and around the Parc des Princes stadium, where fans had assembled to watch the match and celebrate the club’s successful title defence. However, authorities said some groups became involved in acts of vandalism and confrontations with police.
Security forces were forced to intervene after fireworks and other projectiles were reportedly thrown at officers in several locations. Riot police deployed crowd-control measures, including tear gas, to disperse disorderly groups and restore calm.
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Police also reported attempts by some individuals to breach security barriers near the Parc des Princes, while traffic disruptions were recorded on major roads around the city as supporters blocked routes and set off flares.
French officials said several police officers sustained minor injuries during the disturbances. Property damage was also reported, including damage to vehicles, storefronts, public infrastructure, and commercial establishments.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez condemned the violence, describing attacks on law enforcement officers and public property as unacceptable. He praised security forces for preventing wider disorder and protecting key areas of the capital despite the scale of the celebrations.
The incidents have reignited debate in France over football-related violence and public security during major sporting events. Political figures across the spectrum reacted to the unrest, with some calling for tougher measures against individuals involved in acts of vandalism and hooliganism.
Despite the disturbances, authorities confirmed that planned celebrations for PSG’s Champions League success would proceed as scheduled under heightened security arrangements.
Thousands of supporters are expected to attend a victory parade in Paris, where the team will present the trophy to fans before being received by French President Emmanuel Macron.
PSG secured their second consecutive Champions League title after defeating Arsenal in a dramatic final, becoming one of the few clubs in the modern era to successfully defend the European crown.
While celebrations continued across France following the historic victory, officials appealed for calm and urged supporters to celebrate responsibly as security forces remained on high alert.
