Paris 2024: How is France preparing for the Olympics and Paralympics?

[CharlieH]

 

 

The Olympic torch is being lit in Greece on Tuesday, ahead of its journey to Paris for the start of the Games on 26 July.

Security has become a major concern for the French government, and plans for the opening ceremony are being reconsidered.

When are the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games?

The summer Olympics are from 26 July to 11 August, with 10,500 athletes competing in 329 events.

The Paralympics run from 28 August to 8 September, featuring 4,400 athletes in 549 events.

There will be 206 countries represented at the Olympics, and 184 at the Paralympics.

 

More than 15 million tourists are expected in Paris during the Games.

• All you need to know for Paris 2024

Where will Olympic and Paralympic events take place?

The main athletics events will be held at the Stade de France, on the outskirts of Paris.

However, there will be 15 Olympic and 11 Paralympic venues in central Paris. For example, the Pont d'Iena will host cycling events and the start and finish points for the marathon will be at the Hotel de Ville and Les Invalides.

 

 

• Paris to bring back swimming in Seine after 100 years

How are France's security forces preparing for the Olympics?

Worried about threats such as a drone attack, the government has cut spectator numbers at the Olympic opening ceremony.

The event is expected to see the national teams parading in boats along a 6km (3.8 mile) stretch of the River Seine through central Paris.

The original plan was for an estimated 600,000 members of the public to watch from the banks.

However, the government now says only 300,000 invited guests will be allowed.

 

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