France is facing one of the largest security operations of the year. On the occasion of the Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, 22,000 police officers and gendarmes will be deployed across the country. In the Paris metropolitan area alone, around 8,000 security personnel are on duty. Authorities are thus preparing for possible mass celebrations if PSG wins the title of Europe’s most important club.
The extraordinary mobilization highlights the importance of the match far beyond the sporting sphere. Paris Saint-Germain is once again in a European final, and a victory could draw hundreds of thousands of fans into the streets of the capital and other French cities. At the same time, memories of the riots after previous club successes are still present.
After last year’s Champions League triumph, celebrations were overshadowed by numerous incidents. Looting, vehicles set on fire and clashes between fans and security forces occurred in Paris and other cities. More than 500 people were arrested at that time. These events are considered a warning sign for the government and have significantly influenced planning for this year’s final.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez emphasizes that this time the authorities are betting on an especially broad and effective security concept. Focal points include the Champs-Élysées, which traditionally are a central meeting point for football fans. Also around the Parc des Princes, where the finale will be broadcast on giant screens, reinforced security measures apply.
The authorities’ strategy is based on a combination of prevention and rapid response. The goal is to prevent possible disturbances from the outset and at the same time be able to react flexibly to unforeseen developments. Security officials are particularly concerned that some violent individuals may mingle with celebrants or take advantage of the attention around the match to provoke targeted disturbances.
Additional measures will be implemented to reduce the risk of incidents. For example, some metro and RER stations may be temporarily closed. In parts of central Paris there will be traffic restrictions, while some shops in particularly sensitive areas will close earlier. In addition, the sale of fuel in canisters has been prohibited as well as carrying certain objects that could be used as projectiles or improvised weapons.
Security measures are not limited to the capital. The 22,000 personnel will be distributed across the country to also control spontaneous gatherings of fans in other cities. Authorities expect that the impact of a possible PSG success will extend far beyond Paris.
The situation shows how major football events have changed. European finals are no longer just sporting highlights, but represent significant challenges for public safety. For the French government, it is not only about a smooth development of the celebrations, but also about demonstrating that it can keep public order under control. While PSG hopes to win the title, the security forces are focused on preventing new riots.
Author: Andreas M. Brucker