PSG’s Champions League Triumph Sparks Unrest in Paris, Nearly 300 Arrested

Image Source : Live India

Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory over Inter Milan led to widespread celebrations across the French capital, but the night quickly descended into chaos as clashes erupted between fans and police. Authorities confirmed nearly 300 arrests following violent incidents near the Champs-Élysées and Parc des Princes, where tens of thousands had gathered to watch the match on big screens.

Key Developments from the Post-Match Unrest
- PSG secured their first-ever Champions League title with a dominant 5-0 win against Inter Milan in Munich.
- Jubilant fans flooded the streets, setting off fireworks and flares, but celebrations soon turned violent.
- Riot police deployed tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds attempting to break through barricades near the Arc de Triomphe.

Escalation of Violence and Police Response
- Bus shelters were vandalized, cars were set ablaze, and reports surfaced of attempted looting at high-end stores on the Champs-Élysées.
- Paris police stated that most arrests were linked to possession of fireworks and disorderly conduct.
- Approximately 5,400 officers were deployed across the city in anticipation of potential unrest.

Political and Public Reactions
- French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the violence, stating that true PSG supporters were celebrating peacefully while others engaged in criminal acts.
- President Emmanuel Macron, an Olympique de Marseille supporter, acknowledged PSG’s achievement, calling it a proud moment for France.
- The Eiffel Tower was illuminated in PSG’s blue and red colors to mark the club’s historic win.

Impact Beyond Paris and Upcoming Victory Parade
- In Grenoble, southeastern France, a car struck PSG supporters, injuring four members of the same family, two of them seriously.
- PSG is set to hold a victory parade on the Champs-Élysées on Sunday, with tens of thousands expected to welcome the team home.
- Authorities remain on high alert to prevent further disturbances during the celebrations.

Security Measures
- The unrest highlights ongoing concerns about post-match violence in major football events.
- Law enforcement agencies are expected to review security protocols to prevent similar incidents in future sporting celebrations.
- Despite the disturbances, PSG’s victory remains a landmark moment in European football history.

Source: BBC, The Hans India, MSN, Arise TV