PSG Fans Display Banner Urging to End 'Genocide in Gaza' During Champions League Final

Paris Saint-Germain fans made a powerful political statement during the Champions League final in Munich on Saturday, unfurling a banner that read “Stop genocide in Gaza” moments after Achraf Hakimi opened the scoring in their decisive 5-0 victory over Inter Milan. Their gesture drew immediate attention from spectators and cameras alike, with several supporters also waving Palestinian scarves and flags in solidarity throughout the match.

PSG's fanbase has become increasingly vocal regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This is not the first time they have used a high-profile football setting to show support for Palestinians. In November, PSG supporters displayed a massive “Free Palestine” banner during a previous Champions League encounter, underscoring their continued activism against the violence in the region.

The demonstration in Munich comes amid heightened sensitivities locally. The city’s town hall currently displays both an Israeli flag and a Ukrainian one, symbolizing solidarity with those nations. Germany’s steadfast support for Israel, rooted in historical context, means that such public statements at major sporting events are particularly resonant and controversial within the country. The latest banner is likely to spark debate among local authorities and the wider public.

The incident could have repercussions for PSG within European football’s governing body. UEFA regulations strictly prohibit the display of messages deemed political, ideological, or otherwise unsuitable during matches. Such breaches typically incur financial penalties; a first offense for a political banner can result in fines of up to 10,000 euros ($10,700). It is expected that UEFA will review the incident in line with its disciplinary procedures.

The supporters’ message comes as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. Israel’s blockade of the enclave for nearly three months has left over two million residents at grave risk of famine, with limited aid deliveries failing to meet urgent needs. International organizations, including the United Nations World Food Program, have issued stark warnings about the potential for mass starvation in the territory.

The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people—most of them civilians—and the taking of 250 hostages, has escalated dramatically. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, more than 54,000 Palestinian residents—mostly women and children—have been killed by Israeli strikes. The numbers do not distinguish between civilian and combatant casualties, further fueling debate and concern over the scale of suffering in the region.

Saturday’s Champions League final will be remembered not only for PSG's commanding performance on the field but also for the visible display of political activism from its supporters, drawing international attention to the ongoing conflict far beyond the world of sport.