France is about to face one of the largest security operations of the year. To celebrate the UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, 22,000 police officers and gendarmes will be deployed nationwide. About 8,000 security personnel will be on duty just in the Paris region. Authorities at all levels are preparing for possible large-scale celebrations in case Paris Saint-Germain wins this highest European club honor.
Such a large-scale mobilization highlights the event’s importance beyond the realm of sports. Paris Saint-Germain has reached the European final once again, and if they win the title, it could attract hundreds of thousands of fans to the streets of the capital and other cities across France. At the same time, people still remember the riots that occurred after the club’s previous victory.
Last year’s UEFA Champions League victory celebrations were overshadowed by numerous incidents. Robberies, vehicle arson, and clashes between celebrants and security forces took place in Paris and other cities. Over 500 people were arrested at that time. These events were a wake-up call for the government and deeply influenced the preparations for this year’s final.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez emphasized that this time the authorities will implement an extremely comprehensive and efficient security plan. Key areas include the Champs-Élysées, which has traditionally been a gathering center for football fans. Additionally, the final will be broadcast on big screens around the Parc des Princes stadium, where strict security measures will also be in place.
The authorities’ strategy combines prevention and rapid response, aiming to curb potential disturbances at their source while flexibly dealing with emergencies. Security officials are particularly concerned about the possibility of individual violent actors blending into the celebrating crowds or using the event to trigger targeted riots.
Additional measures are aimed at reducing the risk of accidents. For example, some metro and RER stations may be temporarily closed. Traffic restrictions will be implemented in parts of central Paris, and shops in some sensitive areas will close early. In addition, the sale of gasoline cans and the carrying of items that could be used as projectiles or makeshift weapons are prohibited.
Security measures are not limited to the capital. 22,000 deployed personnel will be spread nationwide to monitor fans who may gather spontaneously in other cities. The government expects the potential impact of Paris Saint-Germain’s victory to far exceed Paris.
This development highlights the huge changes that have taken place in major football events. The European final has long been more than just a sporting peak; it is also an important test of public safety. For the French government, ensuring the smooth running of celebrations is also a way to prove its ability to maintain public order. Paris Saint-Germain looks forward to winning the championship, while security services prioritize preventing a new round of riots.
Author: Andreas M. Brucker