What began as a night of jubilation quickly spiraled into chaos as wild celebrations of Paris Saint-Germain’s historic UEFA Champions League victory left two people dead, nearly 200 injured, and hundreds arrested across France.
In the south-western town of Dax, a 17-year-old boy tragically lost his life after being stabbed in the chest during the night’s unrest. Meanwhile, in central Paris, a 23-year-old man riding a scooter was fatally struck by a vehicle, authorities confirmed.
The French interior ministry reported that 559 people were arrested nationwide, including a staggering 491 in Paris alone. Among the injured were 22 police officers and seven firefighters. A total of 264 vehicles were torched, and public infrastructure — including bus shelters — was vandalized as celebrations turned violent.
In Grenoble, a separate incident occurred when a vehicle ploughed into four pedestrians who were celebrating the win at Cours Jean-Jaurès.
The victims, all from the same family, were seriously injured and rushed to Grenoble Alpes University Hospital. The driver, who initially fled the scene, was later arrested and remains in custody.
The Ministry described the night as one of “unprecedented disorder,” as flares, fireworks, and fanfare devolved into chaos. Riot police were deployed in several cities to control crowds and restore order, especially in the capital.
Paris Saint-Germain’s victory marked their first-ever Champions League trophy, igniting celebrations across the country. However, the violence has cast a dark shadow over what should have been a historic and joyous moment for French football.
Authorities are urging calm, and investigations into the various incidents are ongoing.
