Loading...

mosque
partly-cloudy
°C,

Dozens arrested in Paris clashes following PSG's victory

May 31, 2026 / 10:57 AM
Dozens arrested in Paris clashes following PSG's victory
download-img
Sharjah24 - AFP: Police on Saturday arrested scores of people during clashes that broke out in Paris, the French capital, as thousands of supporters took to the streets to celebrate Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) UEFA Champions League final victory.

Massive security operation across France

Around 22,000 police officers were deployed across the country , including 8,000 in Paris, following concerns over potential unrest after disturbances linked to PSG’s victory in the competition last year. Authorities suspended tram services, closed several metro stations and halted bus operations in certain areas in an effort to limit disruptions.

Arrests, Damage and injuries reported

According to Paris police, 79 people were detained, with 45 placed in custody. Authorities reported damage to six vehicles and two businesses, while one police officer sustained injuries.

As fans celebrated the dramatic penalty-shootout win, approximately 20,000 people gathered on the iconic Champs-Élysées, police said.

Preventive measures ahead of the match

Businesses boarded up storefronts and windows before the match to avoid a repeat of last year's unrest, when youths looted and vandalised shops along the Champs-Élysées and other streets, leading to hundreds of arrests.

Police also confiscated 24 flares and around 100 fireworks, while a bus shelter was vandalised near the avenue.

Disturbances near Parc des Princes Stadium

Fireworks were launched across Paris after the French club secured victory in Budapest.

Police said a bakery and a restaurant were damaged near Parc des Princes, where tens of thousands watched the match inside the stadium. Meanwhile, between 4,000 and 5,000 people remained outside, and projectiles were thrown at officers.

A police spokesperson said around 150 individuals attempted to force entry through one of the stadium gates, but officers successfully pushed them back.

Some people also tried to build a barricade using rental bicycles, which was later removed by police.

Police use tear gas to disperse crowds

An AFP reporter at the scene said clashes erupted between police and supporters near the stadium. Officers responded with tear gas after fireworks were thrown at them.

French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said authorities had implemented a "very robust, very solid" security operation to prevent violence.

A police spokesperson added: “Our responsibility is to guarantee everyone a festive celebration that is calm and fully secure.”

Previous unrest raised security concerns

Last year, PSG supporters ransacked businesses on the Champs-Élysées and elsewhere in Paris following the club’s victory, resulting in hundreds of arrests.

May 31, 2026 / 10:57 AM

More on this Topic

Rotate For an optimal experience, please
rotate your device to portrait mode.