Police fear at least 1,000 rioters at PSG-Arsenal final in Paris

According to a confidential internal note obtained by Valeurs Actuelles, the Paris Police Prefecture is anticipating major risks to public order throughout the metropolitan area. The document states that whether PSG wins or loses, mass gatherings capable of disturbing public order and tranquility are expected across the capital.

Authorities have identified several sensitive areas of particular concern. The Champs-Élysées in the 8th arrondissement, traditionally a focal point for Parisian supporters’ celebrations, tops the list. Police are also monitoring the vicinity of the Parc des Princes stadium, specifically between the Porte de Saint-Cloud and Porte d’Auteuil in the 16th arrondissement. The prefecture’s note even warns of potential crowds spilling onto the périphérique ring road.

The internal police assessment indicates that spontaneous outbursts of celebration are expected outside the Auteuil stand and throughout various sectors of the capital. Authorities note the anticipated presence of large numbers of young people from sensitive neighborhoods in the Paris metropolitan area who may join the gatherings.

Nearly 50,000 Expected at Stadium

Approximately 47,500 people are expected at the Parc des Princes to watch the match on giant screens, as Valeurs Actuelles reports. Police are particularly concerned about ticketless supporters attempting to force entry into the sporting venue.

Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire is also expected to attend.

Police Sources Warn of Insufficient Resources

Multiple police sources speaking to Valeurs Actuelles have expressed serious concerns about the deployment. One police source stated that at least a thousand rioters are expected in Paris, with the added danger that group dynamics could amplify the disorder.

Officers on the ground have criticized what they describe as inadequate resources to meet the anticipated threats. According to one source, command staff are under extreme stress, with shortages extending even to basic equipment. There are insufficient MP7 grenades, GENL devices, not enough knee pads for all personnel, and even helmets are in short supply.

Another police source indicated that law enforcement will be forced to prioritize core missions. Property damage, traffic obstruction, and even vehicle fires will have to be tolerated in many cases due to insufficient manpower to respond everywhere. The stated priorities will be combating looting, protecting civilians, and defending fellow officers.

Social Media Mobilization Efforts Detected

Police intelligence has identified efforts by riot groups to use social media platforms to expand gatherings following various events scheduled in the capital. According to one source, self-identified rioters on social networks are calling for others to join them after concerts end in order to multiply their numbers and create chaos.

Officers deployed for the operation are anticipating an extremely tense evening. A senior constable from the BAC 75N unit summarized the mood among frontline personnel, noting that each crowded event has become progressively worse and that the night ahead will be very difficult.

The match represents a major test for Paris security forces, who have faced repeated challenges managing large gatherings in recent years. The combination of potential euphoria or disappointment following the final, the presence of ticketless crowds, and organized riot elements creates what authorities clearly view as a volatile security situation.

With information from Valeurs Actuelles