The euphoria of Paris Saint-Germain’s historic Champions League victory on Saturday night turned to horror for an 11-year-old girl who was subjected to tear gas and mortar fire as she left the Parc des Princes. Camille, a young PSG supporter, found herself in the crossfire of violent clashes that erupted outside the stadium after the team’s 1-0 win over Borussia Dortmund in the final.

In a heartbreaking account shared on social media, Camille described the terrifying moments that unfolded as she and her family attempted to leave the stadium. “I would never have come,” she told supporters, her voice trembling. “I was gassed, I saw fights and I was targeted by mortars. And then there were all these insults on social media.”

What happened at the Parc des Princes?

The violence outside the Parc des Princes began shortly after the final whistle, as celebrations spilled into the streets. While most fans dispersed peacefully, a small group of individuals—believed to be ultras from rival clubs—began throwing objects and setting off fireworks. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd, but the situation escalated when mortar-like devices were reportedly fired into the crowd.

Camille, who had traveled from the suburbs of Paris to celebrate the team’s first-ever Champions League title, was caught in the chaos. “She was just trying to get home with her family,” said a local resident who witnessed the attack. “There was no reason for this. She’s just a little girl who loves football.”

In an Instagram post that has since gone viral, Camille’s family shared a video of her tearful reaction as she recounted the events. The post, which has been viewed over 500,000 times in less than 24 hours, includes footage of the smoke-filled streets and the moment Camille is seen holding her face, clearly distressed.

Why does this matter?

Camille’s ordeal is not an isolated incident. Violence at football matches in France has been a persistent issue, particularly in Paris, where tensions between rival fan groups often flare up after high-stakes matches. The Champions League final, which drew over 75,000 fans to the Parc des Princes, was expected to be a celebration of unity, but the post-match chaos has cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous moment for the city.

French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin condemned the violence in a statement released Sunday morning. “These acts are unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Darmanin said. “We are working with local authorities to ensure the safety of all fans, especially young supporters like Camille.”

PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi also weighed in, expressing his shock and sadness over the incident. “Football should be a celebration of unity and joy,” Al-Khelaifi said in a statement. “What happened to Camille and other fans is a betrayal of the spirit of the game. We will do everything in our power to support her and her family.”

What are the authorities doing?

Paris police have launched an investigation into the mortar attacks, which they describe as “deliberate, and dangerous.” Authorities are reviewing security footage from the stadium and surrounding areas in an attempt to identify those responsible. The use of mortars in such incidents is rare but not unheard of in France, where ultras have been known to bring homemade fireworks to matches.

In response to the violence, French football authorities have announced a review of security protocols for major matches, particularly those held in Paris. The review will focus on improving crowd control measures and enhancing police presence in high-risk areas.

A call for unity and safety

Camille’s story has resonated deeply with football fans around the world. Social media campaigns using the hashtag #JusteUneGamine (Just a Little Girl) have gone viral, with supporters calling for an end to violence at matches. PSG players, including Kylian Mbappé and Vitinha, have also shared messages of support for Camille, urging fans to stand together in peace.

Mbappé, who scored the winning goal in the final, posted on his social media: “This is not football. This is not what we stand for. Camille deserves better, and so do all the fans who came to celebrate with us.”

What’s next?

As France prepares to host the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament, the incident at the Parc des Princes serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing football security in the country. Authorities are under pressure to demonstrate that France can provide safe and enjoyable experiences for fans, both domestic and international.

For now, Camille and her family are receiving support from local charities and PSG’s official fan clubs. The club has offered to cover medical expenses and provide counseling for Camille, who remains shaken by the experience.

PSG’s next match is a Ligue 1 fixture against Olympique de Marseille on June 8 at the Vélodrome. The team will be hoping to return to the focus of celebrating their historic Champions League triumph, but the shadow of Saturday’s violence will undoubtedly linger.

How to Follow

For updates on the investigation and security reviews, follow:

• French Interior Ministry
• French Football Federation (FFF)
• Paris Saint-Germain Official Site

What do you think? Share your thoughts on fan safety in football and how incidents like this can be prevented. Comment below or share this story to raise awareness.