SBOTOP: Chaos Erupts During PSG’s Champions League Parade, French Interior Minister Calls Rioters 'Barbarians'

Paris Saint-Germain made history by lifting their first-ever UEFA Champions League title in the 2024/2025 season — a moment that was expected to ignite joyous celebrations across France. However, the night that was meant to be a symbol of triumph for French football was instead overshadowed by chaos and violence on the streets of Paris.

What began as a jubilant gathering of fans quickly spiraled out of control, especially in key areas of the capital such as the Champs-Elysées and around the Arc de Triomphe. The outbreak of riots not only disrupted the festivities but also raised serious concerns about public safety and the growing pattern of hooliganism associated with large-scale sporting celebrations.

French Interior Minister Condemns ‘Barbaric Hooligans’

In the aftermath of the disturbances, France’s Interior Minister, Bruno Retailleau, issued a scathing condemnation of those responsible. Speaking to BBC Sport, Retailleau made it clear that the violent events were not instigated by genuine PSG supporters, but rather by organized groups of troublemakers whom he labeled as “barbaric mobs.”

“True PSG fans were celebrating an extraordinary moment for their team. Unfortunately, these celebrations were hijacked by barbarians who took to the streets of Paris to cause havoc and confront law enforcement,” Retailleau stated firmly.

He went on to express deep frustration over the fact that such a historic national victory could not be celebrated in peace.

“It’s unacceptable — completely beyond comprehension — that we cannot commemorate a sporting achievement without fearing violent outbreaks from individuals who have no respect for others.”

Water Cannons, Tear Gas, and Torched Vehicles: A Night of Urban Unrest

To manage the anticipated crowds and ensure public order, French authorities deployed approximately 5,400 police officers across key locations in Paris. Despite these precautions, the sheer number of unruly individuals overwhelmed security efforts.

Anti-riot squads were forced to resort to tear gas and water cannons in a bid to disperse the increasingly aggressive crowds. According to reports from local authorities, at least two cars were set ablaze near the Parc des Princes stadium, PSG’s home ground.

In a statement released shortly after the chaos, police officials confirmed:

“Rioters deliberately created disturbances by launching fireworks and other projectiles at officers. Their goal was not to celebrate but to instigate violence.”

As a result of the unrest, hundreds of individuals were detained. While injuries were reportedly fewer than in previous incidents, Paris Police Chief Laurent Nunez stressed that acts of vandalism and targeted attacks against police personnel would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Violence Extends Beyond Paris: PSG Supporters Hit by Car in Grenoble

Shockingly, thе vіоlеnсе wаѕ nоt соnfіnеd to Pаrіѕ alone. In Grеnоblе, a city in ѕоuthеаѕtеrn Frаnсе, a vehicle plowed іntо a grоuр оf PSG fans celebrating thе club’s Chаmріоnѕ Lеаguе ѕuссеѕѕ.

According to local sources, four members of the same family were injured in the incident — two of them sustaining serious injuries. Fortunately, the driver involved voluntarily turned himself in to the authorities. Early investigations suggest the incident was not intentional, though it has further stoked tension around PSG’s celebrations.

Warnings Ahead of PSG’s Official Victory Parade

With PSG’s official victory parade still on the horizon, authorities remain on high alert. Police chief Laurent Nunez has urged the public to remain vigilant and to distinguish between genuine supporters and those seeking to exploit the occasion for violence.

“We will never accept or normalize such reprehensible behavior. Our response will always be decisive and uncompromising,” Nunez declared, signaling a tough stance on any future unrest.

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