France is witnessing widespread celebrations following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) historic victory in the UEFA Champions League, but the festivities have also led to unrest in several cities, including Paris.
Fans began celebrating immediately after PSG secured their win against Arsenal in Budapest, with approximately 20,000 supporters gathering on the Champs-Élysées. The atmosphere was electric, as revelers set off flares and honked car horns in jubilation.
However, the celebrations took a darker turn as reports surfaced of disturbances in various neighborhoods. Authorities indicated that some groups were vandalizing shops and setting fires.
According to French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, by 1:30 AM local time, a total of 426 individuals had been detained nationwide, with 283 arrests occurring in Paris alone. The unrest resulted in injuries to seven police officers, one of whom suffered a serious head injury in Agen.
“Only in France does a football club’s victory lead to unrest. Only in France do people feel the need to stay home on a victory night to avoid confrontation with violence,” commented Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party.
This victory marks PSG’s second Champions League title, following their triumph in the 2025/26 season, which they clinched after a penalty shootout against Arsenal. This achievement is particularly significant as it makes PSG the first French club to win the prestigious trophy twice.
Moreover, PSG’s success is notable as it is only the second time in the modern history of the Champions League (since 1992) that a team has successfully defended its title, a feat previously accomplished only by Real Madrid during their three consecutive wins from 2016 to 2018.
Following PSG's Champions League victory, France has experienced both celebrations and unrest. While fans gathered to celebrate, disturbances led to numerous arrests and injuries among law enforcement.