Paris in chaos: Over 400 arrested, officers injured as PSG Champions League celebrations turn violent across France

A historic win, a violent aftermath

Paris Saint-Germain secured their second consecutive Champions League title on Saturday night, defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Budapest. The victory sparked euphoria among fans, but celebrations in Paris and other French cities quickly spiralled into chaos. According to the French Interior Ministry, 416 people were arrested nationwide, with 283 detained in the Paris metropolitan area alone. At least seven police officers were injured, one seriously.

Scenes of destruction across the capital

An estimated 20,000 people gathered on the Champs-Élysées, but the most severe violence erupted near the Parc des Princes stadium, where a crowd of 4,000 to 5,000 attempted to force open gates and built barricades from city bicycles. Rioters set cars ablaze, smashed shop windows, and vandalised businesses, restaurants, and public infrastructure. Police reported six vehicles, two businesses, and a bus stop were damaged. Officers were pelted with dangerous projectiles and repeatedly deployed tear gas to disperse crowds. AFP reported unsuccessful attempts to storm police stations.

These riots are absolutely unacceptable.

Violence spreads beyond Paris

The unrest was not confined to the capital. In Grenoble, mortar fire was reported and at least two sportswear shops had their windows smashed. A third shop was guarded by police to prevent looting. Fans also spilled onto the Boulevard Périphérique, Paris's ring road, blocking traffic and causing major disruptions.

A massive security operation

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez had mobilised 22,000 police officers and gendarmes for Saturday, including 8,000 in Paris alone, citing a "very solid and reliable plan." The security challenge was compounded by several other major events in the city that evening: a top-flight rugby match, French Open tennis at Roland Garros, and concerts by Aya Nakamura at the Stade de France and rapper Damso at Paris La Défense Arena.

Only in France does a club football team's victory spark riots. Only in France does everyone feel forced to lock themselves at home on a night of victory to avoid confronting violence.

Marine Le Pen took to social media to condemn the scenes, adding that the French people are "heartily sick of these scenes of chaos which multiply at the slightest pretext, despite an extraordinary security system."

Looking ahead to the victory parade

Authorities are now bracing for the official victory parade scheduled for Sunday afternoon on the Champ de Mars. Police estimate up to 100,000 people could attend. Following the parade, players and club representatives are expected at the Élysée Palace for a reception with President Emmanuel Macron. Officials hope the daytime event will remain peaceful, in contrast to the violent night that followed the final whistle. Last year's celebrations after PSG's first Champions League title resulted in two deaths, including a 17-year-old boy.