Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) supporters gathered in large numbers near the Eiffel Tower to celebrate the club’s second UEFA Champions League title. However, the celebrations were overshadowed by violence and disturbances across France, resulting in hundreds of arrests and numerous injuries.
After PSG’s victory over Arsenal in a penalty shootout in Budapest, fans took to the streets of Paris, with gatherings near the Arc de Triomphe and along the Champs-Élysées. Unfortunately, the celebrations were marred by incidents of vandalism, clashes with police, and attempts to block traffic.
Arrests and Injuries
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported that 780 individuals were detained nationwide, with 57 police officers sustaining mostly minor injuries. The disturbances were concentrated around the Champs-Élysées and Parc des Princes, where fans had gathered to watch the match.
In total, disturbances occurred in about 15 cities across France. Police intervened to prevent demonstrators from blocking traffic and to disperse groups vandalizing property. The Paris prosecutor’s office noted that 306 people were placed in police custody, including 81 minors, for offenses such as assaulting officers and vandalism.
Authorities are investigating the death of a 24-year-old near Porte Maillot, who reportedly crashed his motorcycle into a concrete barrier. Additionally, a teenager is in critical condition following a separate incident in Paris.
Response and Security Measures
Minister Nuñez emphasized that many of those responsible for the violence were not genuine football supporters. He assured that the majority of fans celebrated peacefully and that authorities were committed to preventing further disturbances.
Despite the previous night’s unrest, celebrations continued under heightened security. Approximately 100,000 supporters gathered at the Champ de Mars to welcome the PSG players home. The team, including captain Marquinhos and coach Luis Enrique, presented the Champions League trophy to the fans before heading to the Élysée Palace for a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron.
Nuñez stated that around 6,000 police officers were deployed for Sunday’s events, with a firm response promised for any further violence. Meanwhile, social media rumors falsely claimed that the Eiffel Tower had been set on fire, which authorities quickly debunked.
Paris Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire praised the peaceful supporters and condemned the violence, highlighting the joy and unity displayed by the majority of Parisians during the celebrations.
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
