Celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s dramatic victory in the UEFA Champions League final quickly descended into chaos across France, resulting in at least 416 arrests and damage to public and private property in multiple cities.
PSG secured their second consecutive Champions League title with a penalty shootout win over Arsenal in Budapest. While thousands of fans initially took to the streets in joyous celebration, particularly in Paris, the festivities in several locations turned violent, with reports of clashes between supporters, vandalism, and confrontations with police.
According to authorities, riots broke out in at least 15 cities. Police deployed significant forces, using tear gas in some areas to disperse crowds. Damage included torched vehicles, broken shop windows, and destruction of street infrastructure. Injuries among security personnel were reported, though the precise number has not been fully disclosed publicly.
France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez addressed the situation, condemning the violence:
“The unrest is absolutely unacceptable. Seven officers were wounded during operations to maintain order. We will not tolerate this kind of behavior on a night that should have been one of celebration for French football.”
The majority of arrests around 280 occurred in Paris, with the remainder spread across other affected regions. Many of those detained were involved in looting, setting fires, or throwing projectiles at police.
This marks another instance where major football successes in France have been overshadowed by public disorder. Officials have promised a thorough investigation and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.
PSG’s triumph on the pitch, featuring standout performances in the final, has been celebrated by fans worldwide, but authorities are now focused on restoring calm and assessing the full extent of the damages.
