Disturbances erupted near the Robert Schwint bridge following a Champions League match, as approximately fifty individuals obstructed traffic. Upon arrival, law enforcement officers faced a barrage of projectiles, primarily from minors, resulting in minor injuries to five police personnel. Motorists caught in the gridlock witnessed young people climbing onto their vehicles, with at least one car sustaining damage. The group subsequently moved into the city center, concentrating around Place de la Révolution.

Information indicates that tear gas was deployed across several streets, including Grande Rue, Battant, and Rue Courbet. Numerous pedestrians and patrons enjoying outdoor terraces were promptly ushered to safety by restaurateurs amidst the deployment of tear gas. Several local residents also reported their electric bicycles being overturned and damaged, alongside various pieces of urban furniture.

Besançon mayor condemns post-match violence

The acts of violence drew strong condemnation from Ludovic Fagaut, the mayor of Besançon, who expressed his disapproval on social media. “Nothing can justify exploiting a popular sporting event to cause destruction, disrupt public order, and foster a sense of insecurity,” he stated, affirming that efforts were underway to identify those responsible and “bring them to justice.“

Riot police (CRS) were deployed to the scene. The post-match crowd, estimated between 600 and 800 people, initially roamed the city, with up to a hundred youths periodically becoming aggressive. A core group of about fifty actively engaged in confrontations with police forces.

Currently, five individuals have been taken into custody, comprising four minors and one adult.