The streets of Paris are burning. Again. But this time, it’s not the gilets jaunes or pension protests.
It’s football. Last night’s Champions League final descended into a riot that has left President Macron scrambling. Thousands of Liverpool fans, many without tickets, stormed the Stade de France.
Police responded with tear gas. The world watched. The French government is now facing questions over security failures.
The contrast with the UK is stark. British officials were quick to point out that our own major event security has been praised. No such chaos at Wembley.
No such embarrassment. The Home Office is quietly pleased. They see it as vindication of their approach.
But behind the scenes, there is nervousness. Could it happen here? The police are reviewing plans for next season.
The talk in Whitehall is of ‘complacency’. The real question: how long will this stability last? France’s turmoil is a warning.
The game is changing. And not everyone is ready.
