Jubilation turned to chaos as Paris Saint-Germain secured their Champions League title against Arsenal in a penalty shootout (1-1 a.e.t., 4-3 on penalties). Violence and destruction erupted almost immediately after the final whistle, particularly in Paris.

The Parc des Princes, packed with 48,000 supporters watching the match on giant screens, erupted in celebration. Fireworks lit up the pitch while chants of “Champions of Europe,” “This is Paris,” “Luis Enrique,” and “back-to-back” echoed through the stadium.

Celebration marred by violence

Over 22,000 police and gendarmerie officers were deployed nationwide, with 8,000 stationed in Paris and its suburbs—a massive security operation. Despite this, 219 injuries were recorded, including eight in critical condition. The Interior Minister confirmed that 57 law enforcement officers were hurt, one seriously, in Agen.

A fatal crash occurred around 1:10 AM when a motorcyclist collided with concrete barriers on the Porte Maillot exit ramp of the outer ring road. The barriers, one meter high and clearly marked, had been placed to block access. The 24-year-old rider died at 2:20 AM, and an investigation into the circumstances has been launched.

In Paris’s 16th arrondissement, a stabbing incident left a 17-year-old man with life-threatening injuries to his eye and mouth. He fell into a coma and was rushed to a Parisian hospital. The attackers fled the scene.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported 780 arrests nationwide, with violent incidents also reported in Grenoble, Dijon, and Besançon.

Massive turnout expected for celebrations

Near the Parc des Princes, 150 individuals attempted to force entry but were repelled by police, according to authorities.

While the Eiffel Tower glowed in celebration Saturday night, nearly 100,000 fans are expected to gather on the Champ-de-Mars Sunday afternoon to honor the players and staff. The team will later visit the Élysée Palace and return to Parc des Princes for further festivities.