Paris Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire has decided against setting up a fan zone in the city for the Champions League final between PSG and Arsenal on May 30. The decision follows reservations expressed by the police prefecture, citing an already heavy security context. The match will instead be broadcast at the Parc des Princes.
After meeting with the Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, on Monday, the socialist mayor abandoned his plan to create a free public viewing area. The police prefecture had previously voiced opposition to the project, which Grégoire acknowledged during a press conference by admitting, “This isn’t the right time.”
The capital is hosting multiple major events on May 30, including concerts by artists Aya Nakamura, Damso, and Bouss at venues like the Stade de France, La Défense Arena, and Accor Arena. These gatherings will require significant police resources, further complicating security arrangements.
Security challenges mount ahead of PSG’s Champions League final
The decision to forgo the fan zone comes amid heightened security concerns. Following the team’s semi-final victory over Bayern Munich, 127 people were arrested in the Paris metropolitan area, 11 were injured (one seriously), and 23 police officers sustained minor injuries. Last year, celebrations after PSG’s Champions League win led to over 500 arrests, with unrest reported in Paris and other regions.
Minister Nuñez had previously raised concerns about Grégoire’s “unilateral” announcement following the team’s qualification. Opposition councilor Eric Schahl criticized the mayor for failing to consult district mayors before making the announcement, calling it a “backpedaling”.
Despite this setback, Grégoire reaffirmed his commitment to organizing free public events in Paris in the future, emphasizing the importance of accessibility for all fans.
