Meanwhile, Reims Mayor Arnaud Robinet reported ‘a few arrests’ in his city via a Facebook post.

Parisian police authorities confirmed the seizure of 24 flares and approximately one hundred mortars. The unrest also resulted in damage to six vehicles and two commercial establishments, specifically a bakery and a restaurant situated near Porte de Saint-Cloud. Further south, I witnessed a constant barrage of fireworks and young individuals scaling a fire engine.

The Minister further elaborated on four attempts to obstruct the périphérique, each met with swift intervention from law enforcement, who consistently restored traffic flow.

Near the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, where an initial crowd of 4,000 to 5,000 had gathered during the game, thousands more poured in after the final whistle. Here, projectiles were hurled at police officers.

In the 8th arrondissement, some individuals even attempted to assault a police station before officers managed to disperse them.

Police sources indicated a stabbing incident in Barbès, and an intoxicated man reportedly fell into the Seine in the 5th arrondissement.

At the Parc des Princes itself, approximately 150 individuals tried to force their way through an entrance gate. Police intervention quickly repelled them, restoring order moments later.

Soon after, near Porte de Saint-Cloud, close to the stadium, I observed clashes erupt between police and supporters. Fireworks mortars were launched at officers, who responded with tear gas.

Authorities had previously assured the public of ‘meticulously prepared security arrangements’ for the Champions League final, coordinating with other major events concurrently held in the capital. These included a rugby match, ongoing Roland-Garros tennis tournament games, and high-profile concerts featuring singer Aya Nakamura at the Stade de France and rapper Damso at the Paris La Défense Arena.

Disruptions to Public Transport

An extraordinary security deployment saw 22,000 police and gendarmes mobilized nationwide, with 8,000 specifically assigned to Paris and its surrounding areas.

Police officials had previously stated their commitment to ensuring ‘a popular, serene, and fully secured celebration’ for everyone, emphasizing directives for ‘reactivity, commitment, and firmness.’

Numerous public transport services were halted across the city. IDF Mobilité announced on its X account that ‘due to the very numerous gatherings, the network is heavily impacted with many lines stopped to guarantee the safety of passengers and drivers.’

For context, the previous year’s security operation involved 5,400 police and gendarmes in the Paris region, resulting in 563 arrests nationwide (491 in Paris) and 307 detentions (202 in Paris).

Looking ahead, the victorious players are scheduled for a parade on Sunday afternoon at the Champs-de-Mars in the 15th arrondissement, an event expected to draw nearly 100,000 attendees. Following this, they will be received by President Emmanuel Macron at the Elysée Palace.