Chaos after PSG victory: two dead and hundreds injured in Paris!

Chaos after PSG victory: two dead and hundreds injured in Paris!

On June 1, 2025, there were chaotic scenes in France when celebrations for Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) final victory in the Champions League sparked numerous riots. The French football club secured the title with a resounding 5-0 win over Inter Milan in the final, which took place in Munich. While the cheering fans celebrated in Paris, the authorities reported tragic incidents: two deaths and almost 200 injuries were recorded.

The riots were most intense in Paris, particularly on the Champs-Élysées and near the Parc des Princes. Some 559 people were arrested across the country, most of them in the capital. 22 security guards and seven firefighters were injured when rioters attacked the emergency services with fireworks. In Dax, southern France, a young man was stabbed on the sidelines of a fan celebration, while a woman in Paris was hit and killed by fans on a scooter.

Security and order during the celebrations

According to the Interior Ministry, there were around 700 reported fires in Paris, including many burning vehicles. Looting and wanton destruction such as breaking windows were among the violent outbreaks. Despite the chaotic situation, the streets of Munich remained largely peaceful during the final, apart from minor clashes between rival fans.

The celebrations in Paris began before the game with a gathering place for fans at the Parc des Princes, where almost 50,000 fans watched the final on large screens. The mood was initially euphoric, supported by loud cheers, flares and fireworks, while police were present on the streets to ensure security. However, this positive mood was quickly overshadowed by the violence that followed.

A historic moment in French football

The PSG game took place at the same time as the French Open, which drew attention to football and tennis in Paris. Prominent players such as Novak Djokovic spoke about not wanting to schedule games during the final so as not to disrupt the enthusiasm of football fans. PSG's victory marked not only a high point in the club's life, but also a moment of national pride, which, however, took on a dark aftertaste due to the violent chaos that followed.

The increasing acts of violence at sporting events represent a serious challenge that is attracting attention not only in football, but also in tennis and other sports. Studies show that arguments at sporting events have increased in recent decades. Violence reduction measures are coordinated at various levels to provide fans with safe access to events and prevent violent riots.

Numerous strategies have been developed to improve the situation in the long term. These include compliance with the Hooligan Concordat and the “Good Hosting” concept, which aims to welcome fans as guests. Experts are working on identifying “good practices” that will help reduce violence at sporting events in Switzerland and beyond.

The sad events following the Champions League final cast a shadow over PSG's sporting success and highlight the need for safe and respectful celebrations surrounding sporting events.

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The Research Center for Violence at Sporting Events describes...