Paris erupts in clashes during psg-arsenal champions league final

The atmosphere in Paris turned tense late Saturday afternoon as the Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal unfolded, with multiple incidents reported across the city. Authorities confirmed the first arrests occurred near the Porte de Saint-Cloud area and on the Champs-Élysées, underscoring the volatile mood among fans.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez was present on the Champs-Élysées during the match, where he reviewed the extensive security measures deployed by the Paris police. The high-profile final drew thousands of supporters to the iconic avenue, though only the upper section remained accessible to the public.

clashes erupt across key parisian landmarks

Disappointed PSG supporters gathered at the base of the Champs-Élysées, relying on their phones to follow the match. Tensions escalated further when an abribus was vandalized and early skirmishes broke out between law enforcement and troublemakers. In the 16th arrondissement, mortar fire was reported near Avenue Kléber, while masked individuals wielding iron bars were spotted in the 18th arrondissement—though no immediate violent acts were recorded.

As the second half progressed, crowd movements were detected near Châtelet and around the Parc des Princes, prompting riot police to deploy tear gas to restore order. The preemptive measures reflected authorities’ concerns over potential escalation during the high-stakes encounter.

security crackdown yields multiple arrests

By 7:30 PM, police had conducted 1,579 identity checks, resulting in 64 fines. Twenty individuals were taken into custody, with ten formally placed in police custody. Authorities also seized 24 torches and two mortars, while one abribus was severely damaged on Avenue de la Boétie, just steps from the Champs-Élysées. Projectiles were hurled at officers in the vicinity, where an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 spectators had congregated.

Near the Parc des Princes, approximately 150 individuals attempted to breach a stadium entrance, but a swift police response swiftly quelled the disturbance, restoring calm within minutes.