PSG’s victory parade marred by violence as celebrations turn deadly
What should have been a triumphant homecoming for Paris Saint-Germain descended into chaos as overnight celebrations marking the club’s first-ever Champions League title left two people dead and more than 200 injured across France.
Fresh off a commanding 5-0 win over Inter Milan in Munich, PSG returned to Paris on Sunday, parading the Champions League trophy through the Champs-Élysées.
Thousands of jubilant fans lined the avenue, waving club colors as players, led by captain Marquinhos, celebrated atop an open-top bus.
Coach Luis Enrique and forward Ousmane Dembélé joined in the festivities, singing with fans and blowing kisses, before the team met with President Emmanuel Macron.
A concert and light show followed at the Parc des Princes.
But the euphoria was clouded by tragic incidents, according to ESPN. A 17-year-old was fatally stabbed in Dax during a street party, though police say the killing wasn’t directly linked to the match.
In Paris, a man in his 20s died after his scooter was struck by a car amid celebrations. Police have detained the driver.
Elsewhere, a police officer suffered severe eye injuries from fireworks in Coutances, and over 200 injuries were recorded, four serious.
Grenade dispersals, water cannons, looting, and arson disrupted festivities in cities including Grenoble and Paris.
“These isolated acts are contrary to the club’s values,” PSG said. “This title should be a moment of collective joy.”
Authorities made 294 arrests and pledged tighter control as criticism mounts over security lapses during the celebrations.
