France is facing one of the largest security operations of the year. For 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, about 8,000 security forces are deployed. Authorities are preparing for possible mass celebrations in case PSG wins the most important European club title.
The extraordinary mobilization highlights the importance of the match far beyond the sports context. Paris Saint-Germain is again in a European final and a victory could gather hundreds of thousands of fans in the streets of the capital and other French cities. At the same time, memories of violence following previous successes of the club are still vivid.
After last year’s Champions League triumph, celebrations were overshadowed by numerous incidents. In Paris and other cities, there were looting, vehicles set on fire, and clashes between celebrators and law enforcement. More than 500 people were arrested. The events are considered a warning signal for the government and have significantly influenced the planning of this year’s final.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez emphasizes that this time the authorities are aiming for a particularly extensive and effective security plan. The focal points include the Champs-Élysées, traditionally a central gathering place for football fans. Enhanced security measures are also planned near the Parc des Princes, where the final will be broadcast on large screens.
The authorities’ strategy is based on a combination of prevention and rapid response. The goal is to prevent possible disturbances from the outset while being flexible in responding to unpredictable developments. Security officials are particularly concerned that violent individuals may blend in with the crowd of celebrators or that attention around the match could be exploited for targeted riots.
Additional measures aim to reduce the risk of incidents. Some metro and RER stations could be temporarily closed. Traffic restrictions will be applied in some areas of central Paris, while certain businesses in particularly sensitive areas will close early. Furthermore, the sale of fuel in cans and carrying certain objects that could be used as projectiles or improvised weapons have been prohibited.
However, security measures are not limited to the capital. The 22,000 intervention forces will be distributed throughout the country to also monitor spontaneous gatherings of fans in other cities. Authorities expect that the impact of a potential PSG victory could be felt well beyond Paris.
This development shows how much major football events have changed. European finals are no longer just moments of high-level sport but also represent significant challenges for public security. For the French government, it is not only about ensuring the smooth running of celebrations but also about demonstrating the ability to keep public order under control. While PSG aims for the title, the priority for security authorities is to prevent new riots.
Author: Andreas M. Brucker