French officials have confirmed that one person has died and two others are in serious condition following celebrations across the country for Paris Saint-Germain‘s Champions League final victory against Arsenal on Saturday.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez addressed the media on Sunday, stating that 57 police officers were injured and that a total of 219 individuals were hurt due to outbreaks of mob violence in various locations.
The Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office reported the death of a 24-year-old, who is believed to have been involved in a motorbike accident with concrete barriers on an exit ramp near Porte Maillot in Paris.
A 17-year-old is currently in a coma after being stabbed during a fight in a western Paris neighborhood, and another individual remains in critical condition following a car accident in which the driver lost control and crashed into a terrace.
Nuñez noted that violent incidents occurred in other parts of France, with a total of 780 arrests made, including 480 in the Paris region alone.
“It is evident that there are individuals present who are not supporters of Paris Saint-Germain,” Nuñez remarked.
“While we’ve witnessed these instances primarily in Paris, similar events have occurred in other regions as well. Although some individuals are wearing Paris Saint-Germain jerseys, they aren’t even observing the match,” he added.
PSG successfully defended their title, defeating Arsenal in a thrilling penalty shootout in Budapest; however, the violent occurrences in Paris and beyond have overshadowed the festivities.
Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire expressed on X, “The Champions League victory is a historic moment for Paris. Most Parisians celebrated with joy, unity, and respect. However, I cannot overlook the violence and damage that occurred in several areas last night—it is unacceptable.”
“There is no justification for attacking the communal property of our city. I strongly condemn these actions. Such isolated incidents will not diminish our collective pride.”
–Paris police detain 45 as violence mars PSG UCL celebrations
During the press conference, Nuñez expressed gratitude to law enforcement personnel.
He stated, “In response to those intent on disrupting the celebrations through vandalism and theft, we maintained a firm stance, arrested offenders, and restored public order, despite a significant amount of violence directed at security forces. Their bravery deserves our respect.”
“Now, it is time for judicial authorities to conduct investigations to identify and bring the offenders to justice.”
During last season’s celebrations for PSG’s first Champions League trophy, two individuals lost their lives, 192 were injured, and 559 were arrested.