Two Dead, Hundreds Arrested in France After PSG's Champions League Victory

Jun 01, Kathmandu-Two people have died and hundreds have been arrested across France following chaotic celebrations after Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) won the Champions League final, according to the French interior ministry. In Dax, a 17-year-old boy was fatally stabbed, while in central Paris, a 23-year-old man riding a scooter died after being struck by a vehicle. Violent scenes erupted nationwide as fans celebrated PSG’s historic victory, with flares, fireworks, and widespread vandalism reported, including smashed bus shelters and torched cars. Paris police prefect Laurent Nuñez confirmed that a trophy parade will proceed Sunday evening amid heightened police and military presence. Overnight clashes left 192 people injured and led to 559 arrests—491 in Paris alone. Among the injured were 22 police officers and seven firefighters, while 264 vehicles were set ablaze. Nuñez condemned the violence, stressing a firm response against those who came solely to vandalize and loot, not to celebrate. He urged the public to distinguish genuine fans from violent offenders. In the Place des Ternes area, several shops were looted, and 30 suspects were arrested near a Foot Locker store on the Champs-Élysées. Dax mayor Julien Dubois expressed deep sorrow over the fatal stabbing, calling for swift justice and punishment for the perpetrator.