Chaos in Paris after PSG-Arsenal Champions League final

Tensions escalated in Paris on Saturday evening as crowds gathered for the Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal. The situation deteriorated rapidly, prompting a strong police response across multiple districts of the capital.

Police intervention and crowd control measures

According to official statements, the first arrests were made near Porte de Saint-Cloud and on the Champs-Élysées shortly after the match kicked off. Police sources confirmed that ten individuals were taken into custody by late afternoon.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez was present on the Champs-Élysées during the match, overseeing security arrangements implemented by the Paris prefecture. The iconic avenue was partially closed to vehicular traffic, with fans gathering below to watch the game on their phones.

Security hotspots: Champs-Élysées and surrounding areas

Disturbances intensified on the Champs-Élysées, where an information kiosk was vandalized and early clashes erupted between law enforcement and groups of troublemakers. Authorities reported 24 torches and two mortars confiscated during the operation.

In the 16th arrondissement, mortar fire was heard along avenue Kléber. Meanwhile, in the northern districts, masked individuals carrying iron bars were observed moving through the streets, though no violent incidents were immediately reported in that area.

Crowd movements and tear gas deployment

During the second half of the match, our reporters noted significant crowd movements near Châtelet and around Parc des Princes. Police responded by deploying tear gas to disperse the gatherings, restoring order temporarily.

At the stadium itself, around 150 individuals attempted to force entry through one of the gates, but a swift police maneuver prevented them from breaching the perimeter. Calm was restored within minutes.

Official response and aftermath

By 7:30 PM, authorities had conducted 1,579 identity checks, resulting in 64 fines issued. A total of 20 arrests were made, with ten individuals placed in custody. Additional security measures are expected to remain in place throughout the night.

The prefecture confirmed that 4,000 to 5,000 spectators had gathered near the Champs-Élysées during the match, with some throwing projectiles toward police lines. The situation remains under close monitoring as celebrations and tensions continue to unfold.