Two dead and more than 500 arrested as PSG Champions League celebrations spark riots across France | OneFootball

Celebrations quickly spiralled out of control near the Champs-Elysées and outside the Parc des Princes stadium

At least two people have died and more than 500 have been arrested in France after wild celebrations over Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory descended into chaos.

Flares and fireworks were set off, shop windows were smashed, and vehicles were torched as riot police responded with tear gas and water cannons. Paris police said many of those arrested were carrying fireworks or suspected of causing disorder.

France’s interior ministry said more than 200 cars were set on fire in the unrest. Authorities confirmed two deaths during the violence, though details have yet to be fully released. Local reports suggest one of the victims was a 17-year-old stabbed to death in the town of Dax.

Meanwhile, in the southeastern city of Grenoble, a car ploughed into a group celebrating PSG’s win, injuring four members of the same family. Two were left seriously hurt. According to Le Dauphiné, the driver lost control while trying to perform a handbrake turn after speeding along tram tracks.

French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau condemned the violence, writing: “True PSG supporters are enjoying their team’s magnificent match. Meanwhile, barbarians have taken to the streets of Paris to commit crimes and provoke the police.”

President Emmanuel Macron, who supports PSG’s arch-rivals Olympique de Marseille, congratulated the team, saying: “A glorious day for PSG! Bravo, we are all proud. Paris, the capital of Europe this evening.”

PSG’s players are expected to parade through the streets of Paris on Sunday, with Macron also set to host the team at the Élysée Palace.

Footage shared on social media showed crowds attempting to storm shops on the Champs-Elysees, including Chanel and Foot Locker. Other clips captured the moment riot police blocked access to the Arc de Triomphe and fought with crowds along the ring road.

Despite the disorder, many fans celebrated peacefully, singing, dancing, and lighting up the Eiffel Tower in PSG’s blue and red colours.