At least 416 people were arrested across France after celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s historic UEFA Champions League triumph turned violent in several cities, authorities said on Sunday.
Thousands of police officers were deployed across Paris and other parts of the country as security forces battled to contain unrest that disrupted road, rail and bus services in the French capital.
The disturbances erupted after PSG defeated Arsenal in a dramatic penalty shootout to claim the club’s first-ever Champions League title, sparking widespread celebrations among supporters.
However, scenes of jubilation were overshadowed by clashes between football fans and security personnel, with fireworks, flares and other projectiles reportedly used in several locations.
Police deployed tear gas in parts of central Paris to disperse crowds after some supporters confronted security forces. Authorities also confirmed that several officers were injured during the unrest.
The iconic Champs-Élysées avenue was flooded with celebrating fans shortly after the final whistle, with videos shared on social media showing flares being ignited, motorcycles set ablaze and damage to commercial properties.
Earlier, tensions had also flared around PSG’s home ground, Parc des Princes, where thousands of supporters gathered to watch the match on giant screens.
French police said the violence resulted in damage to six vehicles, two businesses and a bus shelter.
According to official figures, 416 people were arrested nationwide in the early hours of Sunday, including 280 arrests in Paris alone.
France’s Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, condemned the violence, describing it as “absolutely unacceptable,” while confirming that seven police officers sustained injuries during the disturbances.
Despite the incidents, Nuñez said authorities had implemented a robust security plan aimed at preventing a repeat of the more serious disorder witnessed during previous major football celebrations.
The unrest also drew political reactions, with far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticizing the violence and questioning why a sporting victory should lead to widespread public disorder.
Meanwhile, PSG’s celebrations are expected to continue with a victory parade through Paris. Players are scheduled to take part in events around the Champ-de-Mars near the Eiffel Tower before attending a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
PSG’s victory marked a landmark moment in the club’s history, ending years of disappointment in Europe and securing the first Champions League crown for the Paris-based side. While the achievement sparked scenes of celebration across France, the violence that followed has once again raised concerns about crowd control and public safety during major sporting events…
