France: Increased security deployed in central Paris Dec. 19 amid gathering for return of national team following FIFA World Cup

Event

Authorities in Paris have increased security on Dec. 19 in preparation for a large gathering planned in the city center to greet the French national soccer team upon its return from the FIFA World Cup. The event will occur at Place de la Concorde starting at 20:30. Nearly 2,000 additional officers will deploy to the area for the evening. Authorities have also closed the Place de la Concorde and the Pont de la Concorde to parking and traffic. Additionally, the Concorde metro station serving lines 1, 8, and 12 is closed for the gathering. The event venue will only be accessible via the corner of the rue Royal and Place de la Madeliene, the intersection of rue de Rivoli and rue Cambon, and the Quai des Tuileries to Leopold Sedar Senghor footbridge. Officials plan to lift the measures at 02:00 Dec. 20.

Additional gatherings could occur with little notice, especially around prominent public squares and major thoroughfares. Some heightened security measures, including temporary road closures, could remain in place beyond 02:00 Dec. 20, particularly if crowds become unruly or localized clashes occur. Ground transport delays are highly likely near the affected area. Clashes and acts of vandalism cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Plan for traffic and public transport disruptions in central Paris until at least the early morning hours of Dec. 20. Seek alternative routes and allow additional time to reach destinations. Leave the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Strictly heed the instructions of security personnel.