Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire has decided against setting up a fan zone for the Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal on May 30, opting instead for a controlled viewing experience at Parc des Princes. The move follows concerns raised by police authorities amid an already heightened security environment.
Emmanuel Grégoire, who took office as the city’s new mayor, initially proposed hosting a public screening area for the highly anticipated match. However, after a Monday meeting with Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, the socialist leader reversed his decision. Earlier, Grégoire had acknowledged the préfecture de police‘s reservations, which had publicly opposed the initiative.
The cancellation comes as the capital prepares for a packed event calendar on May 30. High-profile concerts featuring Aya Nakamura at Stade de France, Damso at La Défense Arena, and Bouss at Accor Arena are set to draw massive crowds, further straining police resources. “This isn’t the right moment,” Grégoire admitted, emphasizing the need to prioritize public safety.
Aftermath of PSG’s semifinal victory: 127 arrests and rising tensions
The final will now be broadcast on a giant screen inside Parc des Princes, requiring significant police presence to ensure smooth operations. While Grégoire remains committed to hosting future free public events in Paris, he acknowledged the immediate challenges posed by the current security climate.
Recent celebrations following PSG’s semifinal win against Bayern Munich saw 127 people detained across the Paris metropolitan area, with 11 injured—one seriously—and 23 police officers sustaining minor injuries. Last year’s Champions League victory celebrations were similarly marred by over 500 arrests after violent incidents erupted in Paris and other regions.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez had previously criticized Grégoire’s unilateral announcement following PSG’s May 6 qualification. Opposition council member Eric Schahl, from Rachida Dati and Grégory Canal’s group, accused the mayor of failing to consult district leaders before making the announcement.