Emmanuel Grégoire, Mayor of Paris, has decided against setting up a fan zone for the upcoming Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal on May 30. The decision follows pushback from police authorities and concerns over an already strained security situation. Instead, the match will be broadcast at Parc des Princes.

After a meeting with Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez on Monday, the socialist mayor abandoned his plan to create a free public viewing area. Previously, he had acknowledged “hearing concerns” from the police prefecture, which had expressed opposition to the initiative over the weekend. “This isn’t the right time,” Grégoire admitted.

May 30 is packed with major events, including concerts by Aya Nakamura at Stade de France, Damso at La Défense Arena, and Bouss at Accor Arena. These gatherings will require significant police resources, adding pressure to an already stretched security framework.

Security challenges ahead of the final

A giant screen broadcast at Parc des Princes is also planned, further necessitating a robust police presence. Despite the setback, Grégoire reaffirmed his commitment to hosting future free public events in Paris, emphasizing the importance of community celebrations.

Following PSG’s semi-final victory over Bayern Munich, 127 people were detained across the Paris metropolitan area, with eleven injured—one critically—and 23 officers sustaining minor injuries. Last year’s Champions League win saw over 500 arrests after unrest marred celebrations in Paris and other regions.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez had previously raised concerns about Grégoire’s unilateral announcement on May 6, following PSG’s qualification. Opposition councilor Eric Schahl criticized Grégoire for failing to consult district mayors beforehand, calling it a “backtracking” move.