Chaos Erupts in France After PSG Champions League Victory, Resulting in Two Deaths

The aftermath of Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League final victory has stirred both jubilation and chaos in France. As fans celebrated, clashes broke out, resulting in two fatalities and hundreds of arrests nationwide. The French government has condemned the violence while emphasizing that the celebrations themselves were enjoyed by the majority of fans peacefully.

In a shocking turn following Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) momentous win in the Champions League final, authorities reported two fatalities and hundreds of arrests as violent clashes erupted during post-match celebrations across France. The French interior ministry stated that a 17-year-old boy was fatally stabbed in southwestern Dax, while a 23-year-old man was killed in Paris after being struck by a vehicle.

Onlookers described chaotic scenes as flares and fireworks were ignited while many fans vandalized public property, including smashing bus shelters and setting vehicles ablaze to commemorate PSG's unprecedented triumph. PSG swiftly condemned the violence, asserting that these incidents did not reflect the values of their fan base. French President Emmanuel Macron labeled the clashes as "unacceptable," promising that perpetrators would face justice.

Despite the earlier disruptions, the PSG victory parade progressed in central Paris, attracting around 100,000 fans. Enhanced police and military presence was evident as the PSG team paraded down the iconic Champs-Élysées on an open-top bus to celebrate their resounding 5-0 victory over Inter Milan.

Reports indicated that 192 people suffered injuries during the disturbances, with police arresting 559 individuals nationwide, including over 490 from Paris alone. Additionally, numerous police officers and firefighters reported injuries, exacerbated by confrontations with fireworks.

Authorities expressed a commitment to separate true fans from groups intent on destruction. Paris police prefect Laurent Nuñez remarked that the incidents did not represent the spirit of the majority of fans who peacefully celebrated, while the Paris Prosecutor’s Office confirmed looting incidents occurred amidst the chaos.

The tragic events sparked further reactions from local officials, including Dax's mayor who called for urgent measures to bring the assailant responsible for the stabbing to justice. As festivities continued at PSG’s Parc des Princes stadium, Macron, an Olympique de Marseille fan, shared congratulations on social media, underscoring the conflicting sentiments arising from the celebrations.

In another troubling occurrence, a vehicle reportedly drove into a group of PSG fans in Grenoble, injuring four members of the same family. The driver turned himself in, with officials noting that the incident was not believed to be intentional.

While the jubilant atmosphere thrived for many, these violent outbursts are a somber reminder of the darker side of fandom in sport, prompting calls for stricter measures to ensure public safety during celebratory events.