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

The Olympic Games are set to kick off in Paris on Wednesday, marking the start of an exciting two-week celebration of sports and culture. The official opening ceremony, scheduled for Friday, promises to be a spectacular event, with athletes parading along the iconic River Seine on boats, creating a unique and picturesque scene.

In preparation for the influx of visitors and the high-profile nature of the event, the French government has announced an "unprecedented" security operation to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators. This comprehensive plan aims to provide a secure environment for everyone to enjoy the games.

When are the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games?

The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics will take place from July 26 to August 11, bringing together 10,500 athletes competing in 329 events. Following the Olympics, the Paralympic Games are scheduled from August 28 to September 8, with 4,400 athletes participating in 549 events.

This global celebration will see 206 countries represented at the Olympics and 184 countries at the Paralympics, showcasing the diversity and unity of the international sporting community.

Where will Olympic and Paralympic events take place?

The main athletics events for the Paris 2024 Olympics will be held at the iconic Stade de France, located on the northern outskirts of the city. In addition to this central venue, several other Olympic and Paralympic events will take place at stunning locations within the heart of Paris.

For instance, the historic Pont d'Iena will serve as the backdrop for cycling events, offering a scenic route along the Seine. Beach volleyball enthusiasts will enjoy matches set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, creating a uniquely picturesque setting. The marathon, another highlight of the Games, will start at the Hôtel de Ville and conclude at the majestic Les Invalides, allowing participants and spectators to experience some of the city's most famous landmarks.

How much are the Games costing?

The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games are expected to cost around 9 billion euros (£7.6 billion), making them less expensive than the previous four Games held in Tokyo, Rio de Janeiro, London, and Beijing. This budget-conscious approach is supported largely by private funding sources, including sponsorships from companies, ticket sales, and the sale of broadcasting rights.

However, the French government's official auditors have indicated that additional public funding may be required, estimating that the government might need to contribute between 3 billion and 5 billion euros (£2.5 billion and £4.2 billion) to cover essential expenses such as security and policing.