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Mass arrests and unrest in Paris during PSG Champions League celebrations
Photo: IOL
2026-05-31 15:29   Incidents   10

Mass arrests and unrest in Paris during PSG Champions League celebrations

More than 280 people were detained in Paris following violent clashes that broke out during celebrations of Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League victory.Across France, authorities reported a total of 416 arrests as thousands of supporters gathered in the capital and other areas.

Anticipating unrest similar to incidents seen in previous years, the government deployed around 22,000 police officers nationwide, including 8,000 in Paris alone.Large crowds assembled on the Champs-Elysees, where about 20,000 fans celebrated the team’s dramatic penalty shootout win in Budapest.

Despite precautionary measures such as closing metro stations, halting tram and bus services, and boarding up shopfronts, disturbances still occurred.Police reported damage to several vehicles and businesses, while flares, fireworks, and other projectiles were used during confrontations.Tensions also flared near PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium, where thousands gathered to watch the match.Groups outside the venue threw objects at officers, attempted to force entry, and even tried to build barricades using rental bicycles.Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds.Seven police officers were injured during the unrest, which Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described as “absolutely unacceptable.” Authorities also noted that key roads, including the Paris ring road, were temporarily blocked by celebrating fans.The events unfolded alongside other major gatherings in the city, including concerts and the French Open, adding pressure on security services.

Political reactions followed swiftly, with criticism from opposition figures highlighting concerns about recurring violence during major public celebrations.

Despite the disturbances, officials maintain that robust security measures are in place ahead of planned victory celebrations, including a parade expected to draw around 100,000 people and a reception for the team at the Elysee Palace.

Full reading at IOL

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