Two dead, hundreds arrested after PSG victory celebrations turn violent in France

Published on Authored by C to I News Desk

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) fans celebrated their team’s historic Champions League victory across France, but the celebrations turned violent in several areas. Two people lost their lives and hundreds were arrested, according to the French interior ministry.

PSG celebrations
Scenes from Paris showing extensive destruction. Photo courtesy: Screengrab

In the town of Dax in south-west France, a 17-year-old boy died after being stabbed. In central Paris, a 23-year-old man riding a scooter was killed after being hit by a vehicle.

Large crowds gathered in Paris to celebrate PSG’s 5-0 win over Inter Milan. Many fans lit flares and fireworks, while some damaged property, including smashing bus shelters and burning cars.

The violence led to 192 injuries, including 22 police officers and seven firefighters. One officer was seriously injured by a firework and placed in an induced coma. A total of 559 people were arrested, with 491 of them in Paris.

Despite the violence, PSG held their victory parade on Sunday, June 1, with heavy police presence. Around 100,000 fans joined the celebrations as the team travelled on an open-top bus along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. A second event was held at the Parc des Princes stadium, where thousands of fans gathered.

Shops were looted in areas like Place des Ternes, and about 30 people were arrested near a store that was robbed. Riot police used water cannons and tear gas to control the crowds. Police said many of the people involved in the violence did not watch the match and only came to cause trouble.

In Grenoble, outside Paris, a car drove into PSG fans, injuring four people from the same family. Two of them were seriously hurt. The driver later surrendered to police and is under investigation. Authorities believe the act was not intentional.

The French president and interior minister condemned the violence. PSG also released a statement saying the violent acts do not reflect the values of the club.