Celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain’s major football victory turned chaotic in Paris as large-scale clashes broke out between fans and police, leading to hundreds of arrests and multiple injuries. The unrest came after the club’s dramatic win in a major European final, which triggered both celebration and violence across parts of the city.
The incident unfolded across the French capital, where authorities had deployed a massive security operation in anticipation of potential disturbances. Around 22,000 police officers were mobilised nationwide, including 8,000 in Paris, after previous celebrations in earlier years had ended in riots and widespread damage.
Despite the heavy security presence, clashes still erupted in several areas of the city following the PSG victory. According to France’s Interior Ministry, 416 people were detained across the country, with 283 arrests made in Paris alone. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine how many detainees will face formal charges.
Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the violence as “absolutely unacceptable” and confirmed that seven police officers were injured during the unrest. He also reported damage to several vehicles and business properties during the night of celebrations.
The celebrations took place after fans gathered in large numbers to mark the win in the Hungarian capital Budapest, where PSG secured victory in a penalty shootout. Back in Paris, around 20,000 supporters filled the Champs-Elysees, one of the city’s most famous streets, turning it into the main focal point of celebrations and clashes.
Authorities had attempted to prevent disorder by closing tram lines, shutting down metro stations, and restricting bus services in several parts of the city. Despite these measures, groups of supporters still gathered and some clashes escalated into violent scenes.
Police reported that several flares and fireworks were seized during the night, while a bus shelter near the Champs-Elysees was destroyed. Officers also said a bakery and a restaurant near the Parc des Princes stadium suffered damage during the unrest.
Tensions were particularly high around the stadium area, where between 4,000 and 5,000 people gathered outside the venue. Some individuals reportedly threw objects at police, and officers used tear gas after fireworks were launched in their direction.
There were also attempts by groups of supporters to enter the stadium gates without authorization. Police said they successfully pushed them back and prevented further breaches. In one instance, protesters tried to build a barricade using rental bicycles before it was dismantled by security forces.
Eyewitness reports described chaotic scenes near key locations in the city, including the Paris ring road, where a group briefly blocked traffic and set off flares. The situation added to traffic disruption already caused by security restrictions in central Paris.
The unrest occurred on an already busy night in the city, with major public events taking place simultaneously, including concerts and the French Open tennis tournament. This added pressure to transport systems and police resources as authorities tried to manage multiple crowds at once.
French political figures reacted strongly to the violence. Far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticised the unrest, saying it was unacceptable that football celebrations repeatedly lead to public disorder. Her comments sparked further debate over public safety and crowd control during major sporting events.
Police officials defended their response, saying a large and coordinated security plan had been implemented to ensure public safety. They stated that officers were deployed to maintain order and allow peaceful celebrations while preventing vandalism and violence.
Despite the disturbances, PSG players are scheduled to take part in a victory parade in Paris, with large crowds expected to gather near the Eiffel Tower. Authorities are preparing for a turnout of up to 100,000 people, followed by a reception at the presidential palace hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Officials say security will remain at a high level during the upcoming celebrations as they aim to avoid a repeat of the overnight clashes.
