Two people lost their lives and2259 others were arrested following violent celebrations in France after PSG clinched their first Champions League title. French officials condemned the unrest while supporters largely celebrated peacefully.
Violence Erupts Across France Following PSG Champions League Triumph
Violence Erupts Across France Following PSG Champions League Triumph
After Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League victory, chaos ensued, resulting in two fatalities and hundreds of arrests as police clashed with celebratory fans.
Two people have died and over five hundred arrests have been made in France following the chaotic aftermath of Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) historic Champions League victory. Celebratory events turned violent, leading to clashes between police and fans during which a 17-year-old from Dax was fatally stabbed, and a 23-year-old man was killed in a traffic incident in Paris.
Illustrating the fervor of the celebration, flares and fireworks filled the air, though the violence overshadowed the triumph of PSG's 5-0 win against Inter Milan, their first Champions League title. The French interior ministry reported that 192 individuals were injured during the unrest, including 22 police officers and seven firefighters.
PSG released a statement denouncing the violence, emphasizing that it does not reflect the values of the club. President Emmanuel Macron condemned the incidents as "unacceptable," asserting that those accountable would face consequences. Despite the violence, the club's victory parade in central Paris proceeded with heightened police presence, as authorities capped attendance at 100,000.
As supporters lined the Champs-Élysées, many enjoyed the parade in a festive atmosphere, with the Eiffel Tower illuminated in PSG colors. However, chaos erupted near the parade, as some fans engaged in vandalism and vandalism. Paris police noted that troublemakers were mixing in with genuine supporters, an issue that caused significant concern among local officials.
The Dax mayor expressed sorrow over local violence, calling for swift justice for the perpetrators involved in the fatal stabbing. Outside of Paris, a car incident injured four PSG fans, highlighting the broader dangers surrounding the celebrations.
While the majority of fans celebrated peacefully, the violent experiences raised questions about ensuring safety during future events. French officials are now tasked with addressing the troubling behaviors exhibited by a minority and restoring a sense of security for all.
