Clashes Erupt in Paris Following PSG's Champions League Victory

Following Paris Saint-Germain's thrilling victory over Arsenal in the Champions League final, Paris witnessed significant unrest as fans celebrated. Police deployed thousands of officers to maintain order, resulting in numerous arrests and property damage. The situation escalated near the iconic Champs-Elysees avenue, where clashes between supporters and law enforcement occurred. Authorities had prepared for potential violence, recalling last year's disturbances. This article delves into the events that unfolded during the celebrations and the measures taken by law enforcement to ensure public safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 31, 2026, 04:32 IST

Violence Erupts After PSG's Win

In Paris, numerous football enthusiasts were apprehended on Saturday as violence broke out after a large crowd celebrated Paris Saint-Germain's triumph over Arsenal in the Champions League final. To maintain order, approximately 22,000 police officers were stationed throughout France, with 8,000 specifically in Paris, following last year's disturbances during PSG's victory in the same tournament. Public transport services, including tram lines and several metro stations, were suspended to prevent further chaos.

According to local authorities, 79 individuals were arrested in Paris, with 45 taken into custody. The unrest resulted in damage to six vehicles and two businesses, and one police officer sustained injuries. As fans rejoiced over the thrilling penalty shootout victory, around 20,000 people gathered on the famous Champs-Elysees avenue. In anticipation of potential violence, many shops boarded their windows, recalling last year's incidents where stores were vandalized.

Video: Fires set by rioters across Paris, France amid celebrations and unrest following PSG’s Champions League final victory; police source tells Le Parisien that 130 arrests have been made. pic.twitter.com/ygDSSHRPum
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On Saturday, authorities confiscated two dozen flares and around 100 fireworks, while a bus shelter was destroyed near the Champs-Elysees. Following PSG's victory in Budapest, celebratory fireworks lit up the Parisian sky. Near the Parc des Princes stadium, where tens of thousands gathered to watch the match, a bakery and a restaurant were damaged. Outside the stadium, 4,000 to 5,000 fans lingered, some throwing projectiles at police. A police spokesperson reported that about 150 individuals attempted to breach one of the stadium gates but were repelled by law enforcement. Others tried to block streets using rental bikes, which police swiftly dismantled. An AFP journalist on-site noted that confrontations occurred between police and fans near the stadium, prompting officers to deploy tear gas in response to fireworks being hurled at them.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez emphasized that a "very robust, very solid system in place" was established to prevent violence. A police spokesperson reiterated their commitment to ensuring a safe and festive atmosphere for all. Last year's celebrations were marred by chaos, resulting in hundreds of arrests and two fatalities following PSG's earlier Champions League win over Inter Milan.