Like it's war – Paris is already ready to celebrate the title

In preparation for possible celebrations by PSG supporters after the Champions League final, Police Chief Laurent Nunez announced Friday that “all businesses, except hotels,” will be closed “from 7 p.m. this Saturday.” Despite these preventive measures, local shop owners remain uneasy, many saying they're “crossing their fingers” that the evening will remain peaceful.

To maintain order during the final between PSG and Inter Milan, authorities are taking no chances. A “massive” deployment of 5,400 officers and gendarmes will be stationed throughout Paris and nearby areas, according to Nunez. He emphasized that a significant number will be focused around the Champs-Elysees and Parc des Princes.

As part of security measures, vehicle access on and around the famous avenue will be shut down from midday Saturday, specifically “around the Etoile,” and starting at 6 p.m. for the lower Champs-Elysees. Nunez clarified that “all businesses, except hotels,” are expected to remain shut “from 7 p.m. Saturday to midnight Monday,” though there will be a brief reprieve on Sunday in a specific section at the bottom of the avenue.

Meanwhile, shopkeepers are bracing themselves for the worst. The festive buzz among fans has not translated into confidence for many business owners. Alexandra, a florist, is especially anxious. With no shutters, her store is vulnerable. “We don't have blinds, we only have glass doors, so zero protection in front,” she said. “We'll lock it and see what happens. Hopefully they don't break everything. We're keeping our fingers crossed.”

Memories of past unrest, especially the Yellow Vest protests, still haunt the neighborhood. Alexandra's windows were shattered back then, while Jose’s kiosk was torched. “There was nothing left, I don't want this kind of thing to happen again, enough is enough. People want to work. I want there to be order,” he stated firmly.

Arthur shares that sentiment, but he’s not taking any chances. He’s already taken precautions like hiding the computers to avoid attracting looters. The gym manager has accepted that business will take a hit. With the forced closure and restricted movement, he estimates a loss of roughly thousand euros in revenue for the day.

UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE - FINAL

Saturday

22.00: (2.25) PSG (3.50) Inter (3.40)

***odds are subject to change***