Paris Police Arrest 127 After PSG Champions League Victory Celebrations Turn Violent
France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has condemned the disorder that marred celebrations in the Paris region after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their place in the UEFA Champions League final on Wednesday night.
Despite many fans celebrating peacefully, the victory over Bayern Munich was followed by significant disturbances. Mr Nuñez confirmed that 127 individuals were arrested across the broader Paris region, with 107 of those arrests occurring within the capital itself.
The unrest led to 11 civilians sustaining injuries, one seriously, and 23 police officers receiving minor injuries. Reports indicate dozens of bins and several cars were set ablaze in central Paris, while police deployed tear gas to disperse crowds attempting to approach the Parc des Princes stadium.
Mr Nuñez stated on Europe 1 radio, “I condemn these excesses which are sadly becoming a common occurrence on nights when Paris Saint-Germain win.” He highlighted attempts by hundreds to target police and loot businesses, noting that an effort to block the Paris ring road, the Périphérique, was successfully thwarted.
The violence, though less severe than the aftermath of PSG's previous Champions League final appearance, still saw one person seriously injured by a mortar firework. An outdoor exhibition in the Place de la Concorde suffered extensive vandalism, with all display panels overturned and pictures damaged.
Looking ahead, Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire has expressed a desire for a large fan zone for the upcoming final in Budapest, despite the associated risks. However, Interior Minister Nuñez deemed this proposal “unilateral,” warning of further potential unrest and asserting that “no disturbances will be tolerated,” promising a “very firm response.”
