Paris police are ramping up security measures ahead of Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final, with 5,400 officers to be deployed across the city.
Although the final will take place in Munich — with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) facing off against Italy’s Inter Milan — celebrations in the French capital are expected if PSG wins. These could escalate into unrest, prompting authorities to take extensive precautions.
Security will be particularly tight around the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. Paris police chief Laurent Nuñez announced that traffic in these areas will be completely halted from midday on Saturday. From 6:00 p.m. local time, the Champs-Élysées and nearby streets will be fully closed off.
This comes in the wake of chaotic scenes earlier this month, when PSG’s victory over Arsenal — which secured their place in the final — led to a night of disturbances in Paris. Forty-seven people were arrested, and three others were injured after being hit by a car.
“Individuals who come solely to cause unrest and loot businesses will face firm action. Any attacks on law enforcement or disturbances to public order will be dealt with immediately,” Nuñez warned.
City authorities are urging fans and residents to remain calm and act responsibly.
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