Sports
Paris Saint-Germain fans descend on Budapest ahead Champions League cracker against Arsenal
Budapest is awash in red and blue as thousands of Paris Saint-Germain supporters arrive in the Hungarian capital for Saturday’s UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal FC at the Puskas Arena.
Around 20,000 PSG fans are expected to be in attendance for the showdown, as the French champions seek to secure a second UEFA Champions League title and add another star to the club’s crest.
The Parisian contingent includes members of the Collectif Ultras Paris, supporters’ groups from across the globe, children participating in PSG for Communities initiatives, and club staff invited for the occasion. Their presence is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere inside the 67,000-capacity stadium.
Among the supporters making headlines is devoted PSG fan and runner Franck Berteau, who completed a 54-kilometre run through the streets of Budapest, tracing out the letters “PSG” to demonstrate his support for the team.
Ahead of kick-off, supporters will gather at the club’s Fan Zone at MTK Sportpark, which will operate from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and remain open after the match. Fans will have the opportunity to meet several former PSG stars, including Javier Pastore, Christophe Jallet, Blaise Matuidi and Pedro Miguel Pauleta, alongside other invited guests such as Sammy Traoré.
Former PSG defender Sammy Traoré praised the unity surrounding the club ahead of the final.
“It’s really nice to see all these supporters who’ve made the trip,” he said. “The whole club is pulling in the same direction. We’ve got a team that reflects who we are, with that Parisian spirit of never giving up. We’re in a second consecutive final and hopefully we can win it and make all Parisians and French people happy.”
Former defender Boukary Dramé also expressed confidence in the team’s chances.
“I’ll be at the stadium this time and I’m really happy about that,” he said. “The coach and the players are ready. They’ve worked hard and are mentally prepared. I believe in them.”
At 2:15 p.m. on match day, PSG supporters will participate in the traditional Fan Walk, marching from Keleti Pályaudvar metro station to the stadium in a united display of support.
Speaking ahead of the final, PSG head coach Luis Enrique said the backing of the club’s supporters provides additional motivation.
“Every time we see our supporters so passionate, it motivates us even more,” he said. “Our goal is not only to continue making history but also to remain one of the best teams in the world.”
Club captain Marquinhos echoed those sentiments, highlighting the sacrifices made by fans travelling to Budapest.
“We have to be hungry. There are fans who have driven all the way here to support us. My dad is one of them,” he said. “The motivation, ambition and desire to win this title are stronger than ever.”
Forward Ousmane Dembélé added that the overwhelming support has boosted the squad’s confidence.
“The excitement surrounding this final is huge,” Dembélé said. “It gives us confidence to have all these fans here for us. They expect a lot from us and we hope to make them happy.”
With thousands of supporters set to fill the stands, PSG will hope their travelling faithful can inspire them to another historic European triumph when they take on Arsenal in Budapest on Saturday evening.