Following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) historic 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, celebration turned violent across France, resulting in two fatalities and over 500 arrests. The French interior ministry reported that 192 individuals were injured during the unrest.
PSG Champions League Victory Riots Cause Chaos Across France
In Dax, a 17-year old boy was fatally stabbed during the celebrations. Additionally, a 23 year old man died in Paris after being struck by a vehicle while riding a scooter. The Paris Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that two police officers were injured by projectiles at Place des Ternes, and several shops were looted in the vicinity.
Approximately 5,400 police officers were deployed in Paris to manage the anticipated celebrations. Despite the heavy police presence, clashes erupted near the Champs-Elysees and PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium. Riot police utilized water cannons and tear gas to disperse the crowds. At least two cars were set ablaze near the stadium.
French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the violence, stating, “True PSG supporters are enjoying their team’s magnificent match. Meanwhile, barbarians have taken the streets of Paris to commit crimes and provoke the police.”
Despite the disturbances, many fans celebrated peacefully, with the Eiffel Tower illuminated in PSG’s blue and red colors. President Emmanuel Macron congratulated the team, declaring Paris “the capital of Europe this evening.”
