Paris, May 8, 2025 – French authorities have confirmed that 43 people were arrested and three others injured by a car following chaotic celebrations in Paris after Paris Saint-Germain’s (PSG) victory over Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals on Wednesday evening.
The jubilant scenes turned violent in the capital’s bustling areas, particularly around the iconic Champs-Elysées, as crowds celebrated PSG’s 2-1 triumph, which secured the club’s place in the Champions League final for the first time in its history.
The match, which saw PSG advance on aggregate after their victory over Arsenal, has sparked wild celebrations from fans across the city, but also raised concerns about public safety.
According to the police, the three individuals were struck by a car near the Champs-Elysées. While the authorities have not yet clarified the exact circumstances surrounding the incident, one of the victims remains in critical condition.
Videos circulating on social media show that after the crash, the car was set alight by the crowd in an apparent act of retaliation. Emergency services were promptly deployed to treat the injured and secure the area.
The celebrations were not confined to the Champs-Elysées, as fans gathered in other parts of the city, including near the Parc des Princes stadium. A large number of PSG supporters, many of whom lacked tickets to the game, gathered outside the stadium in a spontaneous outpouring of excitement.
Police were dispatched to manage the crowds and ensure the flow of traffic, though reports suggest that the situation remained under control outside the stadium, with “no major incidents” reported.
Despite the excitement surrounding the victory, the incidents raise important questions about crowd control and public safety during high-profile sporting events.
The celebrations, while a reflection of PSG’s long-awaited Champions League success, also serve as a reminder of the potential risks that come with such large gatherings in urban areas.
In a statement issued by the Paris police, the authorities confirmed that they would be closely monitoring the aftermath of the celebrations and continuing their investigations into the crash and the related disturbances.
They also reiterated the importance of public order and the role of law enforcement in ensuring the safety of both celebratory fans and the general public during such major events.
PSG’s victory marks a historic achievement for the club, which has long sought success in European football’s most prestigious tournament. Fans will now look ahead to the final, where the French side will face off against another European giant in a bid for their first-ever Champions League title.
However, for now, attention remains focused on the fallout from the celebratory unrest in the streets of Paris, with many calling for a review of safety measures for future public gatherings.
