PARIS, France — A night that was meant to celebrate Paris Saint-Germain’s greatest achievement in club history ended in turmoil after widespread unrest broke out across France, leading to more than 400 arrests and leaving a trail of destruction in several cities.
The violence erupted after PSG lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy on Saturday night, sparking euphoric celebrations among supporters who flooded streets, public squares and major landmarks across the country.
In Paris, thousands of fans gathered around the Champs-Élysées, Place de la Bastille and the Parc des Princes stadium shortly after the final whistle. Supporters sang club songs, waved flags and lit flares as they celebrated the long-awaited European crown.
But as crowds grew larger late into the night, authorities said some groups began engaging in acts of vandalism and violence.
Police reported that individuals set fire to vehicles, damaged bus shelters, smashed shop windows and hurled fireworks at security officers. Several businesses were targeted by looters as disturbances spread through parts of the capital.
Witnesses described dramatic scenes as riot police moved into some of the worst-affected areas. Officers used tear gas to disperse aggressive crowds after coming under attack from projectiles.
“We came to celebrate football, but later everything changed,” one supporter told local media. “People started running, fireworks were flying everywhere, and police moved in.”
According to France’s Interior Ministry, more than 400 people were arrested during the overnight disturbances. Officials said those detained were suspected of offences ranging from vandalism and looting to assaulting law enforcement officers.
The ministry said security forces had been deployed in large numbers before the match amid fears that a PSG victory could attract enormous crowds to the streets of Paris. Thousands of police officers were stationed around key locations, including transport hubs, public squares and major roads.
Despite the extensive security operation, authorities struggled to contain the scale of the celebrations, which stretched well beyond designated fan zones.
Emergency services were called to numerous incidents throughout the night, including fires, road accidents and reports of injuries. Several police officers were hurt while attempting to restore order, officials said.
The unrest also spread beyond Paris. Smaller disturbances were reported in several French cities where supporters had gathered to watch the final. Police responded to incidents involving vandalism and public disorder, though the most serious clashes occurred in the capital.
The violence cast a shadow over a milestone moment for PSG, whose Champions League success was celebrated by football fans across France. The victory marked the culmination of years of investment and repeated attempts by the club to conquer European football.
French President Emmanuel Macron joined political leaders and sporting figures in congratulating PSG on the achievement. However, government officials were quick to condemn the violence, saying criminal acts had tarnished what should have been a moment of national pride.
Interior Minister officials vowed that those responsible would be prosecuted, adding that investigators were reviewing security camera footage to identify additional suspects.
As daylight broke on Sunday, municipal workers could be seen cleaning debris from city streets while police maintained a visible presence in several areas of Paris.
Authorities continued assessing the cost of the damage, with investigations expected to continue in the coming days.
For many supporters, PSG’s Champions League triumph will remain a historic sporting memory. Yet the scenes of violence that followed have once again raised concerns about public security during major football celebrations in France.
