Instituto Bolívar de Estrategia y Diálogo
Pensamiento Estratégico, Diálogo Global

Paris Celebrates PSG's Historic Champions League Victory Amidst Tensions

May 31, 2025, 22:22

The vibrant streets of Paris overflow with jubilation following PSG's historic Champions League win, yet a sense of unease lingers. Last year, the city basked in the glory of hosting successful Olympic Games, and now, it embraces another monumental achievement.

As the first half of the match unfolded, the iconic Champs-Élysées witnessed initial clashes, heavily guarded from early afternoon. Before the final whistle blew, law enforcement had already apprehended 68 individuals near Parc des Princes, PSG's home ground, and the Champs-Élysées. By the match's conclusion, as players celebrated in Munich, the number of detainees exceeded 80.

Theo, a tranquil fan, had predicted a 2-1 win; Alain foresaw 3-1, and Ahmed guessed 1-0. All fell short. "Luis Enrique? He's a star, crafting a remarkable team. Our presence here is thanks to him. It's as though he played on the field," Theo raves, euphoric after PSG's third goal, with two more to follow. "It's our first cup, a historic milestone for the nation," he declares in a bustling bar where eyes remain glued to screens.

Karl and his friend Alain, both 25, traveled from Tours, two hours from Paris. "We drove here just to watch the game. We're celebrating the victory and heading back tonight," Karl explains, seeking no trouble. "We wanted to be on the Champs-Élysées, but bars are closed, and we wish to avoid any chaos."

Approximately 48,000 spectators gathered at Parc des Princes, where giant screens broadcasted the final. Among them was Louis with four friends, who paid 30 euros each to witness the event. "Mbappé, hear us! We got here without you, and we don't need you!" one of them exclaims. Mixed feelings about Mbappé linger, with Theo acknowledging him as one of the best, despite the victory achieved without him.

In France, only Olympique de Marseille had previously claimed a Champions League title. "For PSG to win was a matter of national pride," Louis states. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of France, shimmered in PSG's colors that night.

The occasion posed not only a sports challenge but also a security test. An exceptional security apparatus was deployed, as Parisian sports victories often culminate in disturbances, looting, and police clashes. A total of 5,400 officers were stationed across the capital, with all intervention units on high alert.

On May 7th, during PSG's semi-final victory over Arsenal, 50 arrests occurred. As of the end of this match, over 80 arrests have been reported. The memory of the 2022 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool, held at Stade de France, remains fresh, marred by extensive security issues and fan looting.

From 7 PM, traffic was halted on the Champs-Élysées as part of anti-terror measures. Several nearby metro stations were closed, and shops secured their windows. On Sunday, a march from the Champs-Élysées roundabout to the Arc de Triomphe is planned. The area will be sealed off to traffic, with entry restricted to residents and ticket holders. An estimated 110,000 people are expected to attend.

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