PSG fans celebrated their Champions League win, but the joy turned into chaos. In France, two people died and hundreds were arrested during wild street celebrations. Police struggled to control the crowd as things quickly got out of hand.
A Night of Victory Turns Dark in France
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) made history by winning their first-ever UEFA Champions League title with a 5-0 win against Inter Milan. While fans all over France celebrated this huge victory, the night sadly turned into chaos. Two people died, and over 500 were arrested during violent celebrations across the country.
Tragedy Strikes After the Win
While most fans were celebrating with joy, two separate deadly incidents shocked the nation. A 17-year-old boy was stabbed in the town of Dax in southwestern France. In Paris, a 23-year-old man died after being hit by a vehicle while riding a scooter. Both incidents happened shortly after PSG’s victory.
Street Violence and Vandalism Erupt
As celebrations began, many fans took to the streets with flares and fireworks. In several places, the celebrations turned violent. Bus stops were smashed, shops were looted, and cars were set on fire. In Paris alone, 491 people were arrested. Across the whole country, a total of 559 people were taken into custody. Police also reported that 264 vehicles were burned, and 192 people were injured, including 22 police officers and 7 firefighters.
One police officer was hurt by a firework and had to be put in a coma. French President Emmanuel Macron called the violence “unacceptable” and said those responsible would be punished.
PSG and the Government Respond
PSG released a statement condemning the violence, saying it goes against everything the club stands for. “These actions do not represent the majority of our fans,” the club said.
Despite the violence, PSG’s victory parade continued as planned the next day. Around 100,000 fans gathered in Paris, especially along the Champs-Élysées, where PSG players passed by on an open-top bus. Security was tight, with over 5,000 police officers present to control the crowds.
President Macron, although a fan of PSG’s rivals Marseille, congratulated PSG for their historic win. He even hosted a celebration for the team at the Élysée Palace, praising coach Luis Enrique and his players.
More Trouble on the Streets
More violence broke out near famous landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and PSG’s stadium, Parc des Princes. Riot police had to use water cannons and tear gas to control some of the crowds. Many of the troublemakers were not even football fans, but people looking to start fights and cause damage.
Paris police said some of the 300 people arrested were found with fireworks and other dangerous items. In one incident, 30 people looted a Foot Locker store near the Champs-Élysées.
Local Leaders Speak Out
Julien Dubois, the mayor of Dax, expressed sadness over the young boy’s death. He posted on social media, saying, “We are heartbroken tonight. The person responsible must be punished.”
In another part of France, four members of one family were hit by a car while celebrating in Grenoble. Two were seriously hurt. The driver later turned himself in. Police said it didn’t seem like the crash was intentional.
A Reminder of Responsibility
Although many fans celebrated peacefully by singing, dancing, and waving PSG flags, the joy was overshadowed by the violent actions of a few. The Eiffel Tower was lit in PSG’s colors, but in other parts of the city, fires and fights stole the headlines.
France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said, “True fans are celebrating PSG’s great victory. But others used this moment to cause harm. It’s sad that a celebration can’t happen without fear.”
Conclusion: A Mixed Night for France
PSG’s win in the Champions League should have been a moment of joy for the whole country. Instead, it became a night of tragedy for some and a reminder that celebrations must be handled with care. As investigations continue, France hopes future celebrations can be safer and filled only with happiness.
