As the countdown to the PSG-Arsenal Champions League final on May 30 continues, the question of where fans can gather to watch the highly anticipated match is a pressing one. For the second consecutive year, Paris will not host any official public fan zones. The police prefecture has expressed strong opposition, citing the substantial mobilization of law enforcement required for three major concerts scheduled concurrently at the Stade de France, La Défense Arena, and Accor Arena.

Instead, Parisian supporters wishing to experience the final in a collective atmosphere will find alternatives. A special live screening is planned within the Parc des Princes, with tickets available starting from 19 euros. Numerous bars and restaurants across the capital are also preparing to welcome fans. However, beyond Paris, the organization of match-related festivities throughout the wider Île-de-France region presents a considerable security conundrum.

Discussions underway with regional prefectures

Official fan zones are proving to be a rarity for this year’s final. Currently, no fan zones have been declared in Hauts-de-Seine, where Prefect Alexandre Brugère has explicitly advised mayors against organizing them. The primary reason for this recommendation is the need for law enforcement to concentrate their resources on Paris. In Seine-Saint-Denis, however, discussions are actively progressing between the prefect and local mayors.

Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of Saint-Denis, emphasized the need for assurances from the prefecture regarding security measures to safely host fan zones. He also highlighted the enthusiasm of local community groups eager to establish