PSG Champions League Victory Marred by Clashes: Hundreds Arrested Across France as Celebrations Turn Violent

Title defense and immediate celebrations

Paris Saint-Germain secured their second Champions League title in club history, defeating FC Arsenal 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the final in Budapest. The victory, which defended their title from the previous year, sparked immediate celebrations across France. Around 20,000 fans gathered on the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris, while the Parc des Princes stadium hosted an official public viewing that was nearly full, accommodating between 40,000 and 48,000 spectators.

Clashes and police response

However, the festivities were marred by significant violence. Authorities deployed approximately 22,000 police officers nationwide, with 8,000 concentrated in Paris alone. On the Champs-Élysées, masked individuals repeatedly clashed with security forces, exchanging projectiles and fireworks for tear gas. The French Interior Ministry reported that 416 people were arrested across the country, including 283 in the capital. Other sources, citing the Paris prefecture, reported around 80 arrests in the city, with 45 taken into police custody.

Seven police officers were injured.

Damage and incidents

Beyond the arrests, the violence resulted in property damage. Six vehicles and two businesses were damaged according to the Interior Ministry. Near the Parc des Princes, a bakery and a restaurant were specifically targeted. A bus stop was also destroyed, and additional property damage was reported in various areas of the capital as the night progressed.

Echoes of last year's tragedy

The heavy police presence was a direct response to the massive riots that followed PSG's first Champions League win the previous year. Those 2025 celebrations resulted in widespread destruction, looting, 200 injuries, and two deaths. In an effort to prevent a repeat, Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire had called on the public to celebrate with joy and mutual respect ahead of the match.

Celebrate with joy and mutual respect.

Upcoming official celebrations

Despite the overnight violence, official celebrations are scheduled to continue. Nearly 100,000 people are expected in Paris on Sunday afternoon for further festivities. French President Emmanuel Macron is also set to receive the PSG team at the Élysée Palace to honor their achievement.