PARIS: More than 400 people were arrested across France after celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Champions League final victory over Arsenal turned violent.
Authorities deployed thousands of police officers in Paris and other areas to maintain order, they also used tear gas and made several arrests as large crowds gathered in different parts of the city. The unrest disrupted bus, train and rail services in the French capital.
Large crowds gathered in the streets after PSG secured the title. Some fans set off fireworks and flares, while others damaged property. Videos on social media showed burning electric bikes and broken shop windows in parts of Paris.
Hundreds arrested in #Paris after #PSG's Champions League celebrations – videhttps://www.theguardian.com/football/video/2025/jun/01/hundreds-arrested-in-paris-after-psgs-champions-league-celebrations-video
— 2getaticket.com (@2getaticket) June 2, 2025
The famous Champs-Elysees avenue filled with supporters soon after the final whistle. Earlier in the day, clashes also broke out near PSG's stadium, where fans watched the match on giant screens.
Police used tear gas to disperse crowds in several locations. Officials said seven police officers suffered injuries during the unrest.
According to French authorities, six vehicles, two businesses and a bus shelter were damaged. The Interior Ministry reported that police arrested 416 people, including 280 in Paris.
French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez condemned the violence and described the incidents as unacceptable. He said authorities would continue efforts to restore order.
Far right politician Marine Le Pen also criticized the unrest. She said a football victory should not lead to violence and public disorder.
Marine Le Pen: “Only in France does the victory of a football club spark riots. Only in France does everyone feel compelled to lock themselves in their homes on a night of victory to avoid being confronted with violence”.
PSG won Champions League Final.Champs-Élysées, Paris.👇 pic.twitter.com/wc99EBx6aV
— Tony (@TonyL_01) May 30, 2026
Despite the disturbances, PSG players are expected to take part in a victory parade on Sunday. The celebrations will include an event near the Eiffel Tower and a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.
The violence came one year after PSG's previous European title celebrations. Last year's unrest left two people dead, including a 17-year-old boy.
