Two dead, 192 people injured in France while celebrating PSG’s Champions League Title – GhArticles.com
What began as jubilant celebrations turned into scenes of violence and chaos across France as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) supporters marked the club’s historic UEFA Champions League victory with riots, leading to two deaths, nearly 200 injuries, and over 500 arrests.
The French interior ministry confirmed that celebrations following PSG’s 5-0 triumph over Inter Milan in the final on Saturday night spiraled out of control in several cities, notably Paris and Dax. The win marked PSG’s first-ever Champions League title, a long-awaited milestone in European football.
In Dax, located in south-west France, a 17-year-old boy tragically died after being stabbed in the chest during the festivities. In another incident in central Paris, a 23-year-old man lost his life when he was struck by a vehicle while riding a scooter.
Supporters took to the streets with flares and fireworks, but the celebrations quickly turned violent. Clashes erupted between fans and police on the Champs-Élysées, resulting in significant property damage. Bus shelters were destroyed, cars set ablaze, and chaos reigned in multiple neighborhoods.
According to the interior ministry, 192 people were injured, including 22 police officers and seven firefighters. One officer sustained critical injuries from a firework and was placed in an induced coma. A total of 559 individuals were arrested nationwide, with 491 arrests occurring in Paris alone. Authorities also reported that 264 vehicles were burned.
PSG issued a statement condemning the violent acts, emphasizing that the behavior does not reflect the values of the club or its supporters. “These isolated acts are contrary to the club’s values and in no way represent the vast majority of our supporters,” the club noted.
French President Emmanuel Macron called the violence “unacceptable” and vowed that those responsible would face justice. “Celebrations must never turn into acts of destruction and lawlessness,” he stated.
While the victory was historic for the club and its fans, the night will also be remembered for the tragic loss of life and widespread unrest, casting a shadow over what should have been a moment of national pride.