Tear gas, fires and hundreds arrested: PSG title celebrations erupt into violence in France

More than 400 people were arrested across France after celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory descended into clashes between football fans and police.

Authorities had deployed thousands of officers across Paris and other cities ahead of the final against Arsenal, anticipating large crowds after PSG secured the title in a penalty shootout, per a report by BBC.

Violence erupts across Paris

Large groups of supporters gathered along the Champs-Elysees shortly after the win, with celebrations quickly turning tense in some areas.

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Videos from the French capital showed fireworks and flares being set off as crowds filled the streets. Several vehicles, including electric bikes, were seen burning on roads, while at least one shopfront was damaged during the unrest, reported BBC.

Police used tear gas to disperse crowds in parts of central Paris after clashes broke out.

According to authorities, 416 people were arrested in the early hours of Sunday, including 280 in Paris alone.

Officials also confirmed that seven police officers were injured during the disturbances.

Public transport and businesses affected

The unrest disrupted several transport services in the capital, affecting buses, trains and rail routes as police attempted to control crowds.

Earlier in the day, clashes were also reported outside PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium, where supporters had gathered to watch the final on giant screens.

Police said six vehicles, two businesses and a bus shelter were damaged during the violence.

Per BBC, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez described the scenes as “absolutely unacceptable”.

Authorities said security preparations had been strengthened after last year’s celebrations following PSG’s earlier Champions League triumph turned deadly.

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Nunez said this year officials had put a “very robust, very solid system in place” to manage crowds and maintain order.

Political reactions and victory parade plans

Far-right leader Marine Le Pen criticised the violence in a post on X.

"Only in France does a football club's victory spark riots."

"Only in France does everyone feel compelled to lock themselves in their homes on the evening of a victory to avoid being confronted with violence," she said.

PSG players are expected to take part in a victory parade on Sunday near the Eiffel Tower before attending a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.