Chaos Mars PSG’s Historic Champions League Win: Two Dead, Hundreds Injured and Arrested in France

Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) triumphant 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final was meant to be a moment of national pride — the culmination of years of investment and ambition. But what began as joyous celebrations quickly spiralled into chaos across France, leaving two people dead, nearly 200 injured, and almost 300 under arrest.

A Night of Glory Turns Grim

The jubilant scenes that swept across Paris and other French cities following PSG’s first-ever Champions League title were marred by violence and tragedy. While the capital's iconic Champs-Élysées lit up with fireworks, flags, and chants, dark clouds hovered over the celebrations.

In the southwestern city of Dax, a 17-year-old boy was fatally stabbed during a street party celebrating the win. French police are currently investigating the incident, though no suspect has been identified as of yet.

In Paris, another fatal incident unfolded when a man on a scooter was struck by a car amid the post-match celebrations. The circumstances of the crash are still under review, but officials confirm that it occurred during a spontaneous rally following the final whistle.

“These should be moments of unity and joy for France, but some have turned them into scenes of disorder and violence,” said French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau. “It is unbearable that it is not possible to party without fearing the savagery of a minority of thugs who respect nothing.”

Injured Officer in Coma

One of the most alarming incidents occurred in the northwest of France, where a police officer was struck in the face by fireworks and sustained critical eye injuries. Authorities placed the officer in an induced coma. He is currently under intensive care.

According to the interior ministry, 21 police officers were injured during the night — 18 in Paris and 3 in other parts of the country. The national police added that many of these injuries occurred during confrontations with violent groups using fireworks, bottles, and projectiles.

In total, 192 civilians were also reported injured during the celebrations. Some were hurt in stampedes or by thrown objects; others suffered injuries related to drunken brawls or accidents involving vehicles.

Arrests and Unrest

By 2 a.m. Sunday morning, French law enforcement had arrested 294 people across the country. Most of the arrests were for public disorder, vandalism, and assault. In Paris alone, hundreds of riot police were deployed as pockets of violence erupted in key locations like Place de la République and the area surrounding Parc des Princes.

While the vast majority of PSG supporters took part in peaceful celebrations — waving flags, singing chants, and lighting flares — a small but destructive group hijacked the festivities. Footage circulated on social media showing store windows smashed, cars vandalised, and barricades set alight.

Retailleau noted in his statement: “True PSG fans are getting excited about their team’s magnificent performance. Meanwhile, barbarians have taken to the streets to commit crimes and provoke law enforcement.”

Celebrations Amid Security Challenges

In preparation for the Champions League final, French authorities had already increased police presence in major cities, anticipating large crowds and potential unrest. Over 4,000 officers were deployed in Paris alone.

Despite these efforts, pockets of violence emerged across the country, prompting criticism from opposition figures who argue that France’s public security services are stretched too thin. Others, however, have called for restraint, urging the public to distinguish between criminal behaviour and genuine fan passion.

Still, the events highlight an uncomfortable truth about the state of public order in France during major sporting events — a pattern that has emerged following both domestic league victories and international tournaments in recent years.

A Tarnished Triumph

PSG’s Champions League win should have been a milestone uniting fans from all walks of life. The dominant 5-0 display against Inter Milan was hailed as the club’s crowning achievement, decades in the making. Led by coach Luis Enrique and rising star Désiré Doué, the team showcased a new era of youth and cohesion after years of glitzy signings and near-misses.

However, the shadow cast by the night’s violence has partially dimmed the glow of victory. Families hoping to celebrate were forced to flee crowded squares, and law enforcement once again bore the brunt of crowd aggression.

Conclusion

Paris Saint-Germain may have reached the pinnacle of European football with their commanding Champions League win, but the celebrations that followed revealed deep social fractures. The violence, loss of life, and disruption serve as a sobering reminder that joy can quickly turn to chaos when order breaks down.

As investigations into the deaths and incidents continue, the French government faces renewed calls to manage public celebrations with both vigilance and community engagement. For now, the nation grapples with a bittersweet victory — one marked by both pride on the pitch and pain in the streets.