Post-champions league match chaos erupts in Besançon

Disorder erupted near the Robert Schwint bridge when a group of approximately fifty individuals blocked traffic, initiating a confrontation with law enforcement. Upon arrival, police units were met with projectiles hurled by the crowd, predominantly composed of minors. Five officers sustained minor injuries during the incident. Motorists, caught in the gridlock, were startled as some individuals climbed onto their vehicles, resulting in damage to at least one car. The group subsequently moved into the city center, concentrating around Place de la Révolution.

The unrest spread across several city streets, including Grande Rue, Battant, and Rue Courbet, where tear gas was deployed. Pedestrians and patrons enjoying outdoor terraces were compelled to seek shelter indoors, assisted by local restaurateurs, due to the effects of the gas. Reports also indicated overturned and damaged electric bicycles, alongside other instances of vandalized urban furniture.

Besançon mayor condemns post-match disturbances

Ludovic Fagaut, the mayor of Besançon, swiftly condemned the acts of violence on social media. He emphasized that “nothing can justify exploiting a popular sporting event to cause destruction, disrupt public order, and foster a sense of insecurity.” The mayor affirmed that efforts are actively underway to identify the perpetrators and ensure they are “brought to justice.“

Riot police (CRS) were deployed to the scene. Following the match, an estimated 600 to 800 people were circulating throughout the city, with a core group of up to one hundred young individuals periodically turning aggressive. Approximately fifty of these directly engaged in clashes with security forces.

As of now, five individuals have been taken into custody, comprising four minors and one adult.