Rugby World Cup: France strengthens security to ensure safe tournament after disaster at Uefa Champions League final
- Sports minister Amelie Oudea Castera says there will be between 5,500 and 7,000 security personnel for tournament
- The extra security will deter a repeat of the 2022 Champions League final in Paris, where chaos erupted and police used tear gas on fans
France will deploy up to 7,000 security personnel across the country as part of its measures to ensure safety during the Rugby World Cup, sports minister Amelie Oudea Castera said on Monday.
The World Cup starts with a much-awaited clash between France and New Zealand at Stade de France on Friday, but the situation around the venue will be heavily monitored well before the 9pm kick-off.
“It will be an outstanding moment of sport. This Rugby World Cup is set to be exceptional as France organises it alone for the first time,” Oudea Castera told a press conference.
Between 5,500 and 7,000 security personnel would be mobilised, added Oudea Castera, who also promised smooth travel conditions for visiting fans at airports and train stations.
“We have recruited 600 agents in airports to make it easier to go though customs and also reinforced the staff in the train stations,” she said.
France, which will host the Paris Olympics next year, came in for heavy criticism over the chaos at last year’s Champions League final, which was delayed by 36 minutes after thousands of Liverpool supporters were unable to get into the Stade de France for the match against Real Madrid.
