Following Paris Saint-Germain's historic 5-0 victory in the Champions League final, the city witnessed a mix of joyous celebrations and violent clashes, leading to nearly 300 arrests. Police dispersed rioters with tear gas and water cannons, while the festivities saw the Eiffel Tower illuminated in PSG colors amid peaceful celebrations from many fans.
Celebrations Turn Chaotic in Paris After PSG Champions League Victory
Celebrations Turn Chaotic in Paris After PSG Champions League Victory
Hundreds of arrests were made in Paris as fan celebrations for PSG's Champions League win turned violent.
Hundreds of arrests were made in Paris following clashes between police and fans after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) celebrated their Champions League final win. Nearly 300 individuals were detained as disorder erupted near the Champs-Elysees and the Parc des Princes stadium, where around 50,000 supporters gathered to watch PSG's historic 5-0 victory over Inter Milan on big screens.
The celebrations escalated with fans igniting flares, setting off fireworks, and vandalizing property; several cars were set ablaze. The majority of fans, however, celebrated peacefully, engaging in singing and dancing throughout the streets, with car horns blaring in joy. The Eiffel Tower was lit up in PSG's iconic blue and red, while French President Emmanuel Macron, despite supporting rival Olympique de Marseille, praised PSG's achievement on social media, saying it was a "glorious day."
In anticipation of the celebrations, approximately 5,400 police were deployed throughout the city. Authorities reported that many of those arrested were suspected of causing disturbances and possessing fireworks. Police noted that some individuals attempted to instigate trouble on the Champs-Elysees by throwing large fireworks and objects, leading to confrontations with law enforcement.
While many fans enjoyed the festivities, illegitimate actions were recorded, including attempted break-ins at shops such as Chanel and Foot Locker. Riot police intervened using tear gas and a water cannon to prevent crowds from reaching the Arc de Triomphe. Disturbances also occurred on the Paris ring road, where additional clashes took place.
In a separate incident outside the capital, a car reportedly drove into a group of PSG fans in Grenoble, injuring four individuals, two of whom were seriously hurt. The driver turned themselves into authorities, indicating the incident was not intentional.
Looking ahead, PSG plans to host a victory parade on the Champs-Elysees on Sunday, with a huge turnout of supporters expected. Macron is also set to congratulate the team personally on their remarkable achievement.
