Police arrest 780 as PSG UCL celebrations turn violent across France

Celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) Champions League victory were marred by widespread violence across France, resulting in 780 arrests and numerous injuries.

Thousands gathered in Paris and other cities to celebrate PSG's triumph over Arsenal. However, some groups clashed with police, prompting a significant deployment of approximately 22,000 security forces nationwide. This year's arrests represent a 32 percent increase compared to the celebrations following PSG's Champions League win last year.

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219 participants injured in France, including eight seriously

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported that 57 security forces were injured during the unrest. Additionally, 219 participants sustained injuries, with eight reported to be in serious condition. The minister also noted an increased use of fireworks directed at law enforcement officers.

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57 security forces were injured

The violence extended beyond street clashes. In Paris, a young man died in a motocross bike accident on the ring road, and another individual was critically wounded by a bladed weapon in the capital. The Paris public prosecutor's office is investigating these incidents.

Authorities have emphasized their commitment to maintaining public order during such events, particularly following similar unrest during last year's celebrations. The significant number of arrests and injuries underscores the challenges faced in managing large-scale public gatherings following major sporting victories.

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780 arrests was a 32 percent increase compared to the celebrations of PSG’s Champions League win last year.