Riots erupt across France after national team’s World Cup defeat PHOTO / VIDEO / UPDATED

Riots broke out in Paris and Lyon after France’s national team lost 2–0 to Spain in the World Cup semi-final.

According to foreign media, more than 100 people have been detained in total. Most of the arrests were linked to the use of pyrotechnic devices against law enforcement officers.

The unrest began on the evening of July 14 following the end of the match. France, which had secured six consecutive victories since the start of the tournament, were beaten by Spain and missed out on a place in the World Cup final.

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Violence broke out in several French cities, including Paris, after France’s national team suffered a 2-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup semi-finals.

Angry fans clashed with police following the match, with cars and other property damaged during the unrest.

The violence also sparked strong reactions online, where some users called for tougher measures against rioters.

“Police should be allowed to use lethal force. Otherwise, these idiots will riot over everything,” wrote a social media user.

Authorities have not yet released information on any injuries or arrests linked to the disturbances.

The latest unrest is part of a broader pattern of football-related violence across France. Similar disturbances have erupted repeatedly in recent months.

In May 2026, Paris Saint-Germain's victory in the UEFA Champions League final triggered widespread riots in 75 cities across the country. 

The celebrations quickly descended into chaos, with rioters vandalising property, setting vehicles ablaze and looting shops. More than 890 people were reportedly arrested nationwide during the unrest.

By Jeyhun Aghazada