Approximately 5,000 French citizens rioted in Paris after Nicolas Sarkozy won the presidential elections. Rioters gathered in Bastille Square and threw rocks and bottles at police. Dozens of cars were set on fire in Paris suburbs, and riots were reported in other French towns as well.

Thousands of policemen were already on patrol in case riots broke out. Sarkozy has taken a tough stance against rioting and crime, which has made him unpopular in certain communities. Fears that his detractors might turn to violence if he won were heard several days before the election.