Police operation postpones PSG‑Lyon match from Sunday to Monday

In the streets of Paris, where severe riots shook the city last week, the Ligue‑1‑duel scheduled for Sunday between the French champion Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique Lyon had to be postponed. The match, which was to kick off at the Parc des Princes at 20:45, will now be played on Monday at 20:30.

As in other cities, Paris saw violent riots: shops were looted, buildings and cars set alight, police officers attacked and injured. The unrest coincided with student protests against purchasing power and spread across the entire country.

Security situation in France

The situation in France required a massive police deployment. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced the deployment of 70 000 police officers and gendarmes as well as special forces to control the renewed demonstrations. Numerous restrictions were imposed ahead of the planned protests on Saturday to prevent further violence.

Paris Saint-Germain vs Lyon match postponed due to riots in Paris

Football also remains affected by the unrest. Following an order from the police prefecture that banned the Sunday match, PSG and the Ligue de Football Professionnel postponed the duel. The new scheduling was confirmed by both sides.

The postponed encounter is another sign that the security situation heavily influences match operations in France. The French champion Paris Saint-Germain now meets Olympique Lyon on Monday at the Parc des Princes.