Police clashed with fans in Paris after Paris Saint-Germain celebrated their historic Champions League final win, resulting in nearly 300 arrests. While many festivities remained peaceful, incidents of vandalism, vehicle fires, and clashes prompted a significant police presence and intervention.
Rapid Response: Police Clash with Celebratory Fans in Paris after PSG's Historical Win
Rapid Response: Police Clash with Celebratory Fans in Paris after PSG's Historical Win
Over 300 arrests made during unruly celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain's Champions League victory, as celebrations turn chaotic in the capital.
Hundreds of arrests were made in Paris as chaos erupted following the Champions League final victory of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), marking the club's first-ever triumph in the prestigious tournament. Following the team's overwhelming 5-0 win against Inter Milan, throngs of fans took to the streets near iconic locations like the Champs-Elysees and Parc des Princes, where a massive screen had broadcasted the match to an audience of nearly 50,000.
While many celebrated in a jubilant and peaceful manner, with songs and car horns echoing through the streets, the festivities took a wild turn as flares were lit, fireworks exploded, and property damage occurred. Police reported that nearly 300 individuals were detained for various infractions, with an emphasis on those allegedly causing chaos and possessing fireworks.
With over 5,400 officers deployed, authorities were prepared for potential unrest. Some of the more unruly fans were said to have attempted to vandalize shops like Chanel and Foot Locker, leading to heightened police reactions, including the use of water cannons and tear gas to disperse crowds intent on breaching boundaries, particularly near the Arc de Triomphe.
In a contrasting incident, police in Grenoble reported a vehicle collided with a group of PSG fans, injuring four family members, two of whom sustained serious injuries. The driver surrendered to authorities shortly afterward, and reports suggest no intent was involved.
Amid this chaos, the Eiffel Tower proudly displayed the team's blue and red colors, while President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the victory, despite being a supporter of rival Olympique de Marseille. As PSG prepares for a celebratory victory parade on the Champs-Elysees this Sunday, expectations are high for a return to a more unified celebration with tens of thousands anticipated to pay tribute to the newly crowned champions.
