Île-de-France fan zones: a security dilemma for the psg-arsenal champions league final

As the countdown to the PSG-Arsenal Champions League final on May 30th continues, the question of where fans can gather in Île-de-France to watch the match remains a significant concern. Following last year’s precedent, Paris will not feature any official fan zones. The police prefecture has expressed strong opposition, primarily due to the substantial law enforcement resources already committed to three major concerts scheduled at the Stade de France, La Défense Arena, and the Accor Arena on the same evening. Nevertheless, a special screening of the match is organized at the Parc des Princes, with tickets available from 19 euros, and numerous bars and restaurants across the city are preparing to welcome supporters. Across the broader Île-de-France region, coordinating these match-day celebrations presents a considerable security challenge.

Ongoing discussions with prefectures

Official fan zones for this year’s final will be sparse. Currently, no fan zones have been declared in Hauts-de-Seine, as Prefect Alexandre Brugère has advised mayors against organizing them, emphasizing the need for police forces to concentrate on Paris. In Seine-Saint-Denis, discussions are actively underway between the prefecture and local mayors. Bally Bagayoko, Mayor of Saint-Denis, stated in a social media live broadcast on May 14th that municipal authorities are seeking assurances regarding security provisions for any potential fan zones. He also highlighted interest from local associations in creating