The games are wide open! That’s the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics slogan, hopefully you like hearing it because the Games are fast approaching. The Olympic Committee hopes to show off France’s beloved landscapes and architecture while ensuring the Games are “more responsible, more inclusive, and more spectacular than ever.” Sustainability is a key focus, with 95% of the venues existing or temporary and all sites powered by renewable energy.
The anticipation is palpable. Paris has proven its cutting-edge approach to being an Olympic host in the past: Women athletes were involved for the first time ever at the 1900 Paris Olympic Games, and this year, 50 percent of the athletes are women, making Paris the first host to achieve gender equality in Games history. The 2024 Olympic Games will begin on July 24 with non-medal competitions. Then, from July 26 to August 11, more than 10,000 athletes will compete in 329 medal events. Now with an additional day of swimming (a major change from previous years), there will now be competitions in three highly anticipated sports—artistic gymnastics, swimming, and track and field—held on the same days of August 3 and 4.
Here’s what we’re paying attention to:
(Photo: Ryan “Chachi” Craig)
New Sports on the Block
One of the most exciting aspects of the Paris 2024 Olympics is the introduction of new sports. Surfing, skateboarding, sport climbing, and breaking (breakdancing) will make their Olympic debut, reflecting the evolving interests of a younger, more diverse audience. These additions aim to inject fresh energy into the Games and attract new fans.
Surfing: This competition will be particularly notable in Tahiti, a semi-autonomous French territory approximately 10,000 miles from Paris. The event will be held at Teahupo’o, known for its hTeahupo’olefthand reef break waves. This dramatic venue promises to deliver thrilling and potentially perilous moments to keep spectators on the edge of their seats.
Skateboarding, Sport Climbing, and Breaking: These sports will be set in urban spots around Paris, blending the city’s epic backdrop with cityscape action. Skateboarding and breaking bring street culture to the Olympics, while sport climbing will have athletes scaling walls faster than Spiderman.
(Image: Sector E_Nexity SA-EiffageImmobilier IDF consortium)
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
Paris 2024 aims to be the most sustainable Olympics in history. The organizing committee has committed to cutting carbon emissions by 50% compared to the previous Games. It plans to offset remaining emissions through various environmental projects. Key initiatives include utilizing existing and temporary venues to minimize new construction, implementing a zero-waste policy, and emphasizing renewable energy.
The Olympic Village will showcase green living, energy-efficient buildings, green spaces, and sustainable transportation options. After the Games, the village will be converted into eco-friendly housing, ensuring a lasting positive legacy for Paris.
Iconic Venues and Cultural Integration
Paris, with its rich history and cultural landmarks, is set to offer a unique blend of sports and scenery. Events will be integrated into the city’s iconic locations, creating a stunning backdrop for the competitions. Imagine athletes sprinting along the Seine, gymnasts performing near the Eiffel Tower, and beach volleyball matches against the backdrop of the Champs-Élysées. This approach aims to create a visually captivating and immersive experience for athletes and spectators.
(Credit: Nadiia Gerbish / Shutterstock)
Controversies and Challenges
As with any significant event, the Paris Olympics are not without their controversies. Here’s what’s stirring theHere’sowhat’ss 2024:
Bouquinistes Ban: The iconic bouquinistes, street vendors who sell books and trinkets along the Seine, are being pushed out. Authorities plan to end this unofficial industry to prevent street vending and other activities deemed delinquent. The move has sparked a backlash from those who see the bouquinistes as a cherished cultural institution.
Homelessness: The French government is accelerating plans to relocate unhoused people from Paris to other cities. With around half of France’s 200,000 unhoused living in Paris and the surrounding Ile-de-France region. Since April 2023, around 1,800 unhoused people have been transferred from Paris, and this relocation is complicated by hotels canceling their emergency housing contracts with the government to prepare for the influx of tourists for the Olympics, exacerbating the situation for many homeless individuals.
Bedbug Panic: Bedbugs have become a significant issue in Paris, with infestations rising over the past few years. One in ten Parisians has experienced bedbugs in the past five years, and this summer saw the highest spike yet, amplified by social media posts showing bedbugs in homes, public transport, and even cinemas.
Gender Parity and Inclusion
Paris 2024 is making significant strides towards gender parity and inclusion. The Games will feature a record number of female athletes, aiming for equal representation. Mixed-gender events will also be prominent, reflecting the evolving nature of sports and society.
The Paralympic Games, held immediately after the Olympics, will highlight the incredible achievements of athletes with disabilities. Paris aims to set new standards for accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring everyone can enjoy and participate in the Games.
The Paris 2024 Olympics are shaping up to be historic and memorable. There is much to look forward to, from the introduction of new sports to a strong focus on sustainability and iconic venues. While challenges and controversies remain, the spirit of the Olympics—unity, resilience, and celebrating human potential—will undoubtedly shine through. As we count down to the Games, the world will watch, ready to witness the remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments that define the Olympic legacy.