In Paris, a public celebration erupted on Saturday evening after Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League victory. There were also riots and dozens of arrests. Nevertheless, the police say that the celebration is proceeding “largely to satisfaction.”
PSG won the Champions League for the first time on Saturday evening by beating Internazionale 5-0. Celebrations took place in most parts of Paris, but some also took the opportunity to riot.
Several videos show people clashing with the police and throwing fireworks at the officers. According to the newspaper Le Parisien, at least 131 arrests have been made.
The police had already anticipated disturbances and deployed 5,400 officers to maintain order. Fans had gathered on the Champs-Élysées, the city’s most famous shopping street, among other places. It was relatively quiet there until the first goal was scored.
People ran into the street, and bangs were heard. The same thing happened with the second goal, upon which the police intervened with tear gas and a water cannon. It was also busy with supporters at the Parc des Princes, PSG’s stadium. Tear gas was also used there.
Minister speaks of ‘barbarians’
Bruno Retailleau, the Minister of the Interior, speaks on X of “barbarians” who deliberately seek confrontation with the police. According to him, real supporters should be happy about their club’s victory.
President Emmanuel Macron does not mention the unrest in the city on X. “A great day for PSG,” he writes. “Bravo! We are all proud. Paris is the capital of Europe tonight.”
The capital-rich PSG had been dreaming of Champions League victory for years, but even with big names like Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Neymar, it didn’t work out. With somewhat less big names, the club finally succeeded on Saturday.