Football fans were left shocked when violent clashes broke out between supporters of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Lyon before the French Cup final. The incident occurred at a motorway toll booth in Fresnes-lès-Montauban, near Arras, in northern France, about 62 miles away from the Stade Pierre Mauroy where the final was taking place. Videos captured the moment two coaches were set alight, with thick black smoke billowing into the air. In one video, a man can be seen being kicked by a mob as he lay on the ground while another man tried to appeal for calm through a megaphone.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who was in attendance at the final, condemned the violence and called for a peaceful and joyful atmosphere at sporting events. He expressed his hope that the game would proceed as normal. While there were no reports of serious injuries, eight police officials were injured during the clashes. In Lille, where the match was being held, a strong police presence was maintained to ensure the safety of fans.
This is not the first instance of violence involving football fans in France. Earlier this season, a Lyon match against Marseille had to be abandoned after fans on a coach were attacked with stones and beer bottles, resulting in injuries to Lyon coach Fabio Grosso. The Italian World Cup winner required twelve stitches for facial injuries sustained during the incident. The French Sports Minister at the time, Amelie Oudea-Castera, expressed her dismay at the violence, stating that it showcased everything one would not want to see.
The incident highlights an ongoing issue of hooliganism in football that has been plaguing Europe. Concerns about hooliganism have also been raised ahead of Euro 2024 in Germany this summer. Police forces across Europe have been struggling to contain outbreaks of violence among football fans. France, in particular, is gearing up for a massive security operation for the upcoming summer Olympics in Paris, which opens in July.
Despite the violence, PSG remains focused on their pursuit of a domestic treble. Having already secured the Ligue 1 title and the French Super Cup in January, they are now aiming to add the French Cup to their collection. However, it is crucial for football authorities and law enforcement agencies to address the issue of hooliganism and ensure the safety and enjoyment of fans at future sporting events.