Islamabad, June 2, 2025: Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League 2025 victory over Inter Milan has been overshadowed by violent riots across France, leading to two deaths and over 500 arrests.
Key Developments in PSG Victory Riots
- Fatalities Reported:
- A 17-year-old boy was fatally stabbed in Dax.
- A 23-year-old man died after being hit by a vehicle in central Paris.
- Widespread Violence:
- Flares and fireworks lit up the night skies.
- Cars were torched and shops looted, particularly near the Champs-Élysées.
- Paris police confirmed 264 vehicles set on fire and 559 arrests, including 491 in Paris alone.
- Heavy Police Deployment:
- Over 5,400 officers were deployed.
- Water cannons and tear gas were used to disperse violent crowds near the Arc de Triomphe and Parc des Princes.
- Injuries and Clashes:
- 192 people injured in total, including 22 police officers and 7 firefighters.
- One officer remains in a coma after being hit by a firework.
Macron, PSG, and Officials Respond
- France President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence, calling it “unacceptable” and promised strict action against the culprits.
- Paris Police Chief Laurent Nuñez said: “We will never tolerate such abuse… many were not fans but looters and vandals.”
- PSG issued a statement disassociating itself from the violence, stating the acts “do not represent the vast majority of supporters.”
PSG Celebration Parade Proceeds Amid Tension
- Despite unrest, the PSG victory parade continued with over 100,000 fans attending on the Champs-Élysées.
- Another celebration was held at Parc des Princes with thousands more in attendance.
- The Eiffel Tower was lit in PSG’s iconic blue and red to honor the club’s historic win.
Additional Incidents Nationwide
- In Grenoble, a car rammed into PSG fans, injuring four family members. The driver, believed not to have acted intentionally, is now in police custody.
- Near a Foot Locker store in Paris, 30 looters were arrested after storming the shop during the riots.
While PSG fans across France were jubilant after the 5-0 win over Inter Milan, the night took a dark turn due to violent disturbances. Authorities have vowed to restore order and ensure that true football celebrations are not marred by lawlessness.
