Dozens of people were arrested in Paris on Saturday night as celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Ligue 1 title victory descended into clashes with police, authorities said.
Violence Erupts After PSG Win
PSG secured their 12th French league title earlier in the day with a 1-1 draw at Strasbourg, but the joyous occasion quickly turned sour in the capital. Hundreds of fans gathered near the Parc des Princes stadium and along the Champs-Elysees, setting off fireworks and flares.
According to police sources, the situation escalated when groups of supporters began throwing projectiles at officers, who responded with tear gas and baton charges. The violence continued into the early hours of Sunday, with several shops and vehicles vandalized in the vicinity.
Arrests and Injuries
Police confirmed that 44 individuals were taken into custody for various offenses, including public disorder, assault on police, and illegal possession of fireworks. At least 12 police officers sustained minor injuries, and several fans were treated for smoke inhalation and minor wounds.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin condemned the violence, stating that such behavior would not be tolerated. He praised the police for their restraint and professionalism in handling the situation.
The club itself issued a statement urging fans to celebrate responsibly and avoid any actions that could tarnish the team's achievement. PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi also expressed disappointment over the incidents, emphasizing that the title should be a moment of pride for all supporters.
This is not the first time PSG victory celebrations have led to unrest; similar incidents occurred in 2020 and 2022, prompting authorities to increase security measures for such events. The city of Paris has faced criticism for its handling of large gatherings, with many calling for better crowd control strategies.
As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to the legal proceedings for those arrested, while the club prepares for its next match against Auxerre. The violence has cast a shadow over an otherwise successful season for PSG, who are also in contention for the French Cup.
