Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory was overshadowed by widespread unrest across France, with more than 400 arrests made after post-match celebrations turned violent.
Thousands of PSG supporters poured into the streets on Saturday night to celebrate the club’s European success. Festivities erupted along the Champs-Élysées and around the Parc des Princes, but the jubilant atmosphere was disrupted as incidents of violence broke out in Paris and several other cities.
French authorities confirmed that 416 people were arrested nationwide, including 280 in Paris. The disturbances also left seven police officers injured, while vehicles, businesses, and public infrastructure suffered damage during clashes between some fans and law enforcement officers.
As fireworks and flares illuminated the night sky, security forces battled to restore order in affected areas. Police reportedly deployed tear gas in parts of central Paris after groups of individuals were accused of vandalism and confrontations with officers.
Footage circulating on social media showed damaged storefronts, burning vehicles, and crowds setting off pyrotechnics as celebrations in some locations escalated into disorder.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez strongly condemned the violence, describing the incidents as unacceptable and calling for accountability.
The unrest also drew criticism from political figures, including Marine Le Pen, who questioned the repeated outbreaks of violence linked to major football celebrations in the country.
The scenes revived memories of the disturbances that followed PSG’s previous European triumph, when celebrations were similarly marred by violence and tragic loss of life.
Despite the overnight chaos, PSG’s victory festivities were expected to continue on Sunday, with a celebratory parade planned near the Eiffel Tower before a reception hosted by Emmanuel Macron.