The newly crowned European champions were received by the French president just a day after their historic victory in Munich.
French President Emmanuel Macron praised Qatar’s contribution to “bringing Paris to the top of Europe” during a special ceremony at the Elysee Palace on Sunday, honoring Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In his enthusiastic speech, Macron acknowledged PSG President Nasser Al-Khelaifi and Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, recognizing PSG as the first French team to win the UEFA Champions League since 1993.
“This victory is largely thanks to you, dear President Nasser,” Macron stated midway through his address, after expressing gratitude to head coach Luis Enrique, sporting director Luis Campos, and the players. “Over the past 14 years, you have faced many challenges, yet you have consistently defended the club, the city, and French football. There have been both joyful and difficult moments, but you never wavered.”
The Parisian club celebrated its first Champions League title with a resounding 5-0 victory over Italy’s Inter Milan on Saturday, marking a significant achievement after five decades of challenges.
Although the team reached the finals in the 2019/20 season—nine years after Qatar Sports Investment took over—they were defeated by Bayern Munich. The lowest point for the club under the new ownership likely occurred three seasons earlier when Barcelona staged a remarkable 6-1 comeback against PSG in the quarterfinals.
President Macron expressed gratitude to Qatar for its unwavering support of the club despite its "ambitious endeavors." He stated, "I also want to thank Qatar, which has been a demanding partner and continues to reinvest in the club, never letting it falter," highlighting QSI’s ongoing commitment to player acquisitions, brand development, and infrastructure improvements.
"There were challenging years for Qatar, but they continued to believe in PSG. I want to express my gratitude to the Amir of Qatar and everyone who has contributed to this success under your leadership, Al-Khelaifi."
Luis Enrique's team also achieved a treble with their victory in Munich, having already claimed the Ligue 1 and Coupe de France titles. However, as Macron noted in his speech, PSG's journey has not always been smooth.
Before QSI's takeover, PSG finished fourth and was seldom regarded as one of France's top clubs. The team struggled with poor management, incidents of violence among its Ultras supporters, and waning interest. Since 2011, the owners have faced accusations of "sportswashing."
It is fair to say that Qatari investment has brought success to the French capital, even prior to this latest victory; however, this recent achievement is the final piece of the puzzle.
“It’s a team filled with determination, ambition, and unity. That’s the kind of football we love to see,” Macron remarked about the squad, which is primarily made up of talented young players—a departure from the previously favored Galacticos strategy of acquiring seasoned stars.
“You achieved this in the most incredible and inspiring way. You are the champions, and you have elevated Paris to the pinnacle of Europe, giving us all something to rally around and be excited about together,” he continued.
Marquinhos, the captain and the longest-serving player since the takeover, was visibly emotional as the French president spoke, shedding tears at the podium.
"Real work begins today": Nasser Al-Khelaifi emphasizes PSG's focus on the future after their UCL victory.
French President Emmanuel Macron, who has recently become a passionate football supporter, opened his speech by condemning the violence that erupted in Paris following Saturday's match. Tragically, two lives were lost, and hundreds were arrested amid the chaos that ensued after PSG's victory. "As a nation, we mourn for these individuals," Macron stated. "We will pursue and hold accountable those responsible, as this is not what football stands for."
After the ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the victorious team held a bus parade towards the Parc des Princes, where tens of thousands gathered to celebrate the players and their long-awaited title.
