The elation of Paris Saint-Germain’s Champions League triumph was swiftly overshadowed by widespread disturbances, leading to numerous arrests across the capital. Similar outbreaks of tension also flared up in Bordeaux and Agen following the Parisian club’s victory.
Authorities had prepared an extraordinary security operation for the evening of Saturday, May 30th, anticipating either a victory or a defeat for Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. A formidable force of 22,000 police officers and gendarmes was mobilized nationwide, with 8,000 specifically assigned to Paris and its surrounding urban areas. Yet, despite this extensive deployment, early signs of unrest became apparent. By afternoon, with nearly 20,000 individuals congregating at the Parc des Princes for the match broadcast, initial clashes erupted between law enforcement personnel and certain “supporters” near the stadium’s vicinity, resulting in 20 immediate arrests.