Paris tightens security ahead of France-Morocco World Cup match

Paris authorities will strengthen security measures and close several metro stations ahead of the 2026 World Cup match between France and Morocco, Le Parisien reports, citing police sources.

Sources said starting from 9:00 p.m. local time, traffic on several metro lines near the Champs-Élysées will be restricted.

On Line 6, service will be suspended between Charles de Gaulle–Étoile and Trocadéro at the direct request of the police prefecture.

Police have also banned the use of pyrotechnics and fireworks from July 13 to July 15. In the same area, the transportation of fuel in canisters will be prohibited on July 9 and 10.

Authorities said the measures were being introduced because of a high risk of public disorder, citing incidents that occurred during previous matches. Tens of thousands of supporters are expected to gather on the streets of Paris for the game.

Following France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, unrest broke out in several European cities. In Paris, more than 100 people were detained after clashes erupted on the Champs-Élysées, where supporters threw pyrotechnics and construction materials at police officers.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov