Is France ready for the Olympics?

by | Apr 17, 2024 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

We are just 100 days before the 2024 Summer Olympics, which will run from 26 July to 11 August. Ten thousand athletes will compete in 329 events. This year, 206 countries will be represented at the Olympics in Paris, France.

Embed from Getty Images

As the 100-day countdown was marked with a press conference, Paris Olympics chief organizer Tony Estanguet expressed confidence, saying, “We’re ready for this final straight.” However, the mood in the French capital is not entirely celebratory. France 24 reports that the city’s residents, known for their discerning tastes, are yet to embrace the spirit of the games.

While the city of Paris is abuzz with preparations for one of the biggest sports events of the year, the media seems to be painting a different picture. Many outlets are expressing their reservations, sparking a debate on the readiness and impact of the upcoming events.

From social media to news reports, french people are starting to worry about how truly ready the country is for such a significant event, having to accommodate not only thousands of athletes but a massive amount of tourists. The city went through a massive squatter expulsion process and homeless relocation to accommodate the athletes. However, the topic sent on social media on a train seemed to be university students being asked to move out of their dorms.

Students risking homelessness due to the Paris Olympics
byu/No-Assistance-2841 inolympics

The French media themselves highlight the uncertainty as the games get closer, highlighting public transportation concerns. Additionally, many media outlets are also raising the question of security. With Paris planning on holding the opening ceremony in an open-air setting, and with France’s history of terrorism attacks, many are raising the question of safety.

On social media, French people are calling out the city of Paris for its poor handling of its preparation. Many Parisians themselves have taken to TikTok and other social media to show the city’s current state. One of the main concerns seems to be the fact that the Paris configuration does not seem appropriate for the event. People are showing the part of the La Seine River that will be used as a swimming pool for water sports.

 

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *