French authorities will tighten security across Paris on Thursday ahead of the highly anticipated World Cup quarterfinal between France and Morocco, temporarily closing several metro stations, deploying drones and increasing the police presence in areas expected to attract large crowds.
Several metro stations near the Champs-Élysées and other popular gathering points will close beginning at 9 p.m. local time as officials seek to manage thousands of supporters expected to celebrate before and after the match.
Authorities said drones will be used to monitor crowds in real time, allowing police to quickly detect fights, disturbances or other security incidents. Additional officers will also be deployed across key locations, including tourist sites and areas traditionally frequented by football supporters.
Officials said the measures are intended to ensure public safety and prevent disorder while allowing supporters to celebrate.
French authorities expect the vast majority of fans to gather peacefully but said enhanced security is necessary given previous incidents surrounding high-profile matches.
Following the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinal between France and Morocco, celebrations in Paris turned violent in some areas, resulting in more than 100 arrests and clashes involving supporters and bystanders.
Security has also been reinforced following incidents reported after the recent Canada-Morocco World Cup match. French authorities have taken note of videos circulating on social media in which individuals identified as Algerian supporters appear to threaten Moroccan fans ahead of Thursday’s match, warning them against celebrating in certain neighborhoods.
Authorities have not publicly linked those videos to any specific planned security operation but said policing levels have been increased as a precaution.
The France-Morocco quarterfinal is expected to draw one of the tournament’s largest crowds in Paris, where both countries have sizeable communities.
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