What started as a joyful celebration quickly took a dark turn on Sunday night in Paris.
Tens of thousands of fans poured into the streets to celebrate Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League win.
But the excitement soon spiraled into chaos as violent clashes broke out between supporters and riot police, overshadowing what should have been a night of pure joy.
The Scene of the Victory Parade
The atmosphere was electric as PSG fans flooded the French capital to mark the club’s incredible 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in Munich.
This win wasn’t just any trophy — it was PSG’s very first Champions League title, a milestone that had supporters dreaming of a historic night.
Streets were packed with cheering crowds ready to honor their team’s momentous achievement.
Tensions Rise Amid Overcrowding
However, the celebrations were marred by unrest when the number of people exceeded the official limit of 110,000.
Overcrowding created tension among the fans, and clashes with police erupted.
Protesters began throwing projectiles, prompting riot officers to respond with tear gas and water cannons in an effort to restore order.
A National Tragedy and Presidential Response
The situation worsened tragically with the death of two people during the chaos, including a teenager who was stabbed.
President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation from the Élysée Palace, condemning the violence in no uncertain terms.
He said, “We are in a moment of joy, but nothing can justify what has happened in the last few hours.
These events are unacceptable and have deprived our compatriots of happiness.
The nation is in mourning, and justice will be relentless.”
Investigation Underway as Police Seek Answers
Local police confirmed that the teenager was celebrating in a designated fan zone before succumbing to his injuries in hospital.
Authorities are actively investigating the incident, reviewing CCTV footage to identify those responsible.
The tragic stabbing is part of a broader wave of unrest that saw 426 arrests across the country overnight.
What Comes Next for Paris and PSG Fans?
The celebrations that should have united the city and the club now leave many shaken.
With the nation mourning and law enforcement promising strict consequences, questions remain about how future celebrations will be handled to prevent such violence.
For now, Paris is grappling with the painful aftermath of a night that was meant to be unforgettable for all the right reasons.