Riots break out across France following World Cup semi-final Loss to Spain; hundreds arrested

Authorities said the majority of those detained were accused of lobbing fireworks at police officers and emergency personnel after the match, while security forces moved quickly to restore order.

Despite the unrest, officials reported no serious injuries or major property damage.

Paris records over 140 arrests

According to BFMTV, disturbances broke out in Paris and nearby suburbs shortly after the final whistle.

An initial assessment released at 6 am local time on Wednesday showed that 141 people had been arrested in connection with the post-match violence. A source at the Paris Police Prefecture told the broadcaster that most of the arrests involved individuals using firework mortars aimed at law enforcement officers and emergency services.

Police confirmed that the incidents did not result in serious injuries.

Clashes also reported in Lyon

Similar scenes unfolded in Lyon, where hundreds of supporters had gathered at Place Bellecourt to watch the World Cup semi-final.

Following France's elimination, several groups assembled in the city centre, and projectiles, including fireworks, were thrown at police officers. Security personnel, including the CRS 83 riot police unit, intervened to disperse the crowds.

Around 20 people, reportedly born between 2002 and 2011, were arrested.

Authorities said no injuries or significant property damage had been reported in the city.

Heightened security amid Bastille Day celebrations

The World Cup semi-final coincided with Bastille Day celebrations, prompting French authorities to strengthen security arrangements across the country.

According to reports, nearly 70,000 security personnel had been deployed nationwide because the national holiday coincided with the high-profile football match.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez told BFMTV that authorities were maintaining "a high level of vigilance" and were prepared to "put an immediate stop to any disorder."

"No unruly behaviour will be tolerated," Nuñez said.

Police also praised the majority of supporters for behaving responsibly despite France's defeat.

Macron reacts to France's WC exit

French President Emmanuel Macron congratulated Spain on reaching the final while expressing support for the French team.

"Bravo to Spain for this qualification. Thank you to the Bleus for carrying our colours with commitment," Macron said after the match.

"Tonight's defeat is hard to take, but this team is young and full of promise," the president added.

Spain secure final berth

Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with a composed 2-0 victory over France in Dallas.

Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal inside the area.

Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage in the second half, while France struggled to create clear scoring opportunities despite the presence of captain Kylian Mbappé.

Luis de la Fuente's side will face either England or Argentina in Sunday's World Cup final in New Jersey, while France will contest the third-place play-off.

Previous football celebrations marred by violence

France has witnessed similar incidents following major football matches in recent years.

Earlier this year, more than 400 people were arrested after widespread disorder broke out in Paris following Paris Saint-Germain's (PSG) victory over Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League final. The most serious disturbances were reported around the Châtelet district between Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum, where clashes with police and public disorder were recorded.