PARIS, France — As Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) gears up for Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan in Munich, the French capital is mobilizing an unprecedented security operation to manage the influx of fans and potential disturbances.
Authorities announced on Friday that 5,400 police officers will be deployed across Paris and its surroundings to ensure public order during the high-stakes football event.
Laurent Nuñez, Paris police chief, described the scale of the operation as “enormous,” highlighting the significance of the Champions League final for the city.
“A massive deployment in the capital and its surroundings, with 5,400 personnel mobilized… that’s enormous,” Nuñez told Le Parisien newspaper.
The heightened police presence will be especially visible along the famed Champs-Elysées avenue, a traditional gathering spot for fans during major sporting events.
Additionally, security will be reinforced around PSG’s home ground, Parc des Princes, where large screens will broadcast the match live for thousands of supporters.
This extensive deployment comes in the wake of tense scenes during PSG’s semi-final victory over Arsenal earlier this month, when dozens of arrests were made following acts of vandalism and clashes between fans and police.
Authorities are determined to avoid a repeat of such unrest and to maintain a peaceful environment as thousands of fans flood the city to celebrate—or commiserate—over the final.
The Champions League final is the climax of the European football season, drawing intense attention from supporters worldwide. For Paris, the stakes are particularly high.
Despite years of heavy investment following the Qatari takeover in 2011, PSG has yet to secure the prestigious trophy. This Saturday’s match marks only their second appearance in the final since the club’s transformation into one of Europe’s most ambitious teams.
PSG’s pursuit of the coveted Champions League title has captivated football fans in Paris and beyond. A win would not only crown their domestic dominance but also establish them as a true powerhouse on the European stage—a status that has so far eluded them despite acquiring world-class stars.
With such high anticipation, authorities are bracing for large gatherings of fans eager to support the team.
Besides the physical presence of police officers, the city has coordinated with local officials to implement safety measures at key locations, including fan zones, bars, and public squares.
The security operation underscores the challenges faced by host cities during major sporting events, where celebrations can quickly escalate into chaos if not managed carefully.
Paris officials hope the show of force will deter any potential disturbances and ensure that the city remains safe and welcoming throughout the day. As PSG prepares to face Inter Milan in Munich’s Allianz Arena, the eyes of the football world will be fixed on the pitch.
Back in Paris, the atmosphere is charged with excitement and anticipation—balanced with a vigilant focus on safety as thousands of fans gather to witness a historic moment in French football.
The outcome of the final could finally end PSG’s long quest for European glory, but for now, Paris is united not only in support of its team but also in commitment to a secure and peaceful celebration.
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