PARIS: With just five days remaining until the opening ceremony, Paris Olympics chief Tony Estanguet assured on Sunday that the city is fully prepared for the Games, despite facing challenges such as security concerns and complaints from local businesses.
“We are ready as we head into the final phase,” Estanguet said during a press conference in Paris, highlighting the completion of venue preparations and the arrival of thousands of athletes and officials. He acknowledged the ongoing need for vigilance until the closing ceremony but expressed confidence in the readiness achieved.
One of the significant updates provided was the improved water quality of the river Seine, which will host the spectacular opening ceremony. Estanguet confirmed that all indicators are positive for using the Seine for outdoor Olympic swimming events.
The opening ceremony, scheduled to take place outside the main athletics stadium for the first time in Summer Olympics history, will feature 6,000-7,000 athletes on 85 barges and boats. Approximately 300,000 ticketed spectators are expected to watch from stands and river banks, with an additional 200,000 viewing from nearby apartments.
Despite the anticipation, Estanguet acknowledged challenges posed by the extensive security measures, which have restricted access to parts of central Paris. Trade groups representing local businesses have reported a significant decline in business and footfall due to these measures.
“We made a conscious choice that the success of Paris 2024 would mean hosting the Games in the heart of the city,” Estanguet explained.
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In addition to security concerns, cybersecurity remains a focal point, with recent incidents prompting vigilance against disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks. Estanguet assured that cybersecurity measures have been intensified to safeguard the event’s integrity.
The Games are also navigating diplomatic complexities, with a reduced presence of Russian and Belarusian athletes due to geopolitical tensions stemming from the Ukraine conflict.
As the countdown to the Games continues, anticipation is high for the sporting events spread across temporary venues throughout Paris, including beach volleyball at the Eiffel Tower and skateboarding at Place de la Concorde.
“We can’t execute these Games without some level of disruption and restrictions,” Estanguet remarked.
Meanwhile, a warm-up basketball game saw the USA narrowly defeat South Sudan.
The Paris Olympics are set to commence on Friday evening, with a robust security presence and heightened measures against potential disruptions.
