Violence Erupts Before French Cup Final: 30 Injured, 10 Arrested
In a disturbing turn of events prior to the French Cup final near Lille, clashes between rival fans from Lyon and Paris Saint-Germain left 30 individuals injured and led to the arrest of 10 individuals.
According to statements from prefecture officials overseeing France’s northern region, the altercation, involving over 200 fans, erupted on a highway around 6 p.m. local time. Fourteen of the injured required medical attention, while eight police officers sustained minor injuries in the confrontation. Images circulating online depicted the chaotic scene, with supporters from both factions hurling projectiles and engaging in physical altercations. Additionally, one bus was set ablaze, and two others incurred damage during the skirmish.
Despite heightened security measures, including police escorts for fan buses from both clubs, the situation escalated rapidly. The national police division responsible for combating hooliganism had already flagged the final as a significant security risk.
The longstanding rivalry between Lyon and PSG ultras was evident in their attire, with PSG supporters dressed in dark clothing and Lyon fans donning white attire. Several individuals resorted to concealing their identities with balaclavas as the violence unfolded.
Bertrand Gaume, the prefect for upper France, commended law enforcement for their prompt intervention, which helped prevent further escalation. The authorities made 10 arrests in connection with the incident.
The unrest wasn’t confined to the French Cup final alone, as PSG supporters also disrupted the youth French Cup final. Projectile throwing aimed at Marseille Under-19 goalkeeper Aboubaka Dosso prompted a 10-minute suspension during the second half before the game resumed.
Moreover, the French Cup final venue had to be relocated to Stade Pierre Mauroy near Lille due to ongoing preparations at Stade de France for the Paris Olympics.
The final score saw PSG emerge victorious with a 2-1 win over Lyon, marking Kylian Mbappé’s final match for the Parisian club.
