Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced Sunday, May 31, that 780 people had been arrested across France during the festivities marking Paris Saint-Germain’s victory in the UEFA Champions League final. This represents a 32% increase compared to last year’s celebrations. Of these arrests, 457 resulted in overnight detentions.

In 2025, following PSG’s first Champions League triumph, 592 people were arrested nationwide, with 491 of those occurring in the Paris region. The Minister also revealed that 57 police officers and gendarmes were injured during the night’s disturbances.

Unplanned incidents mar the celebrations

During a late-night press conference, Nuñez condemned the festive gatherings that spiraled into unacceptable violence. He stated, “There were joyful demonstrations, but they were marred by serious disturbances—something we had anticipated and prepared for.”

A driver lost control of their vehicle Saturday evening, crashing into a terrace before fleeing the scene. According to witnesses, two pedestrians were injured, though authorities reported that the victims were not in critical condition. The driver’s reckless behavior has since been classified as a hit-and-run incident.

Tragedy also struck when a motocross rider—born in 2002—lost control on the Paris périphérique, colliding with concrete blocks near the Porte Maillot exit. The accident proved fatal for the rider. Additionally, a stabbing victim remains in critical condition after being attacked in the capital.

Massive security deployment

Paris authorities had implemented an unprecedented security operation ahead of the Champions League final, alongside other major events in the city. These included a rugby match, ongoing tennis action at Roland-Garros, and concerts featuring Aya Nakamura at the Stade de France and Damso at the Paris La Défense Arena.

A total of 22,000 police officers and gendarmes were mobilized, including 8,000 dedicated to maintaining order in Paris and its surrounding areas. The deployment reflected the authorities’ commitment to preventing chaos while allowing fans to celebrate their team’s historic achievement.