At least 45 individuals were detained in Paris on Saturday amid celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) win in the Champions League. These celebrations spiraled into chaos with fires ignited, businesses vandalized, and clashes with law enforcement.
Following PSG’s victory, large numbers of people filled the streets of the French capital. Crowds gathered near the Arc de Triomphe, with reports indicating fans set off flares and honked car horns. Police worked to manage the thousands congregated along the Champs-Élysées.
“A car burns and fireworks explode as police watch PSG supporters celebrate in Paris,” as noted in AP reports.
Authorities noted that some individuals attempted to storm a police station in Paris late Saturday. The Paris police prefecture reported shops were vandalized, fires were set, and vehicles torched during the disorder. Among the damaged properties were a bakery and a restaurant.
Authorities also reported that a crowd temporarily obstructed the main ring road around the city until police dispersed them. During these events, a police officer sustained injuries.
By 10 p.m. local time, police had arrested at least 45 people. This unrest occurred after PSG defeated Arsenal in a dramatic Champions League final, marking one of the club’s major achievements on the European front.
This is not the first instance of chaotic celebrations following PSG’s success; last year’s victory led to injuries of 201 individuals in Paris and over 500 arrests across France.