As the Champions League final approaches, the excitement around the match between PSG and Inter Milan is undeniable — but unfortunately, so is the violence.
In the Bavarian city of Munich, where Saturday’s big game will take place, clashes between fans from both teams have already erupted, casting a shadow over the highly anticipated event.
Violent Clashes Break Out on Munich Public Transport
Shocking videos have surfaced showing brutal fights on the city’s subway system, with bottles flying and people kicking each other in intense scuffles.
According to reports from French sports outlet L’Equipe, at least one PSG fan was seriously hurt after being ambushed at the Universitat subway station.
Police confirmed that some Inter Milan supporters involved were carrying dangerous weapons like knives.
Munich police took to X (formerly Twitter) to explain that the altercations included the use of pepper spray and that their investigation into the incidents is ongoing.
Meanwhile, German newspaper Bild reported that Inter fans were throwing stones near the Frottmaning U-Bahn station, leading to more chaos on the platforms.
Overcrowding and Aggressive Behavior Add to the Chaos
The Telegraph highlighted that Munich’s U6 subway line has struggled to cope with the huge number of fans pouring into the city, with tempers flaring as tensions mounted.
One group of Italian ultras even retaliated against police pepper spray with metal bars, and at one point, a metal object was hurled at authorities.
The subway driver eventually fled the Universitat station without stopping at other stations, likely to escape the violent scene and keep the train safe.
Police Intervene to Prevent Escalation Earlier in the Day
Earlier in the day, police seemed to have more control over the situation.
Bild mentioned that outside a posh Dallmayr restaurant, PSG fans provoked Inter supporters, but officers quickly stepped in with batons to stop any violence from breaking out.
In Munich’s central Marienplatz square, police estimated that about 1,500 ultras from both sides had gathered, keeping a close watch on the potentially volatile crowd.
Paris Prepares for Possible Fallout From the Final
Back in Paris, where many PSG supporters live, shops are already putting up barricades, anticipating potential unrest if PSG fails to clinch the trophy once again—especially after their heartbreaking loss in the 2020 final.
French authorities are gearing up to keep the peace with a massive deployment of around 5,400 police officers.
A significant police presence is expected along the Champs-Elysees, a hotspot for celebrations or protests, depending on how the match ends.
Troublemakers Cast a Shadow Over the Match Atmosphere
It’s important to note that only a small number of fans from both PSG and Inter have a reputation for causing trouble, but their actions often dominate headlines and fan experiences.
Earlier this month, PSG ultras were tear-gassed during a tense confrontation with riot police ahead of their semi-final match against Arsenal.
Event organizers are particularly eager to avoid a repeat of the chaos that surrounded the 2022 final, when Liverpool and Real Madrid fans faced violence and mugging after leaving the Stade de France in Paris.
That night saw kickoff delayed by 36 minutes due to dangerous overcrowding and police actions.
Memories of the 2022 Final Security Fiasco Still Haunt Fans
During the 2022 final, thousands of Liverpool fans were crushed and tear-gassed as police tried to control entry to the stadium.
French authorities created narrow funnels to separate fans, leading to terrifying crush incidents reminiscent of the chaos at Wembley during UEFA Euro 2020.
UEFA initially blamed fans arriving late, but later said fake tickets caused entry delays.
Liverpool supporters, including pregnant women and children, called for a full inquiry after they were tear-gassed and faced police brutality.
Police Violence Outside the Stade de France Sparks Outcry
The unrest didn’t stop at the stadium. Outside the Place de la Nation fan zone, French riot police were also accused of unprovoked attacks on Liverpool supporters watching the match.
Disturbing footage showed women among those struck by heavily armed officers.
Former French interior minister Gerald Darmanin recently apologized for blaming English fans for the violence, acknowledging the complexity and fault on both sides.