Police arrested at least 45 individuals in Paris on Saturday after celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain’s victory in the Champions League turned chaotic. Fires were ignited, businesses were vandalized, and clashes occurred between fans and law enforcement.
After PSG’s win, large groups gathered near the Arc de Triomphe. Attendees set off flares and sounded car horns in celebration, according to reports by The Associated Press. Police coordinated efforts to manage the crowd of thousands along the Champs-Élysées.
Among the disorder, some individuals attempted to invade a police station. The Paris police prefecture reported vandalism, including shop damages and vehicle arson. A bakery and a restaurant also suffered harm during the turmoil.
Hundreds of migrants were removed from a Paris theater after residing there unlawfully for months.
At one point, a group briefly obstructed the city’s main ring road before police managed to clear them out. An officer was injured in the events. By 10 p.m. local time, authorities confirmed the arrest of 45 people.
Festivities erupted city-wide after PSG defeated Arsenal in the Champions League final, marking a significant victory for the club on the European platform.
Such violent celebrations aren’t new for PSG’s Champions League successes. Last year, after a similar win, the aftermath saw 201 injuries in Paris with over 500 arrests nationwide.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.