Paris, July 25, 2024 — As the Paris Olympics officially begins in just two days, football and Rugby Sevens are taking center stage with heightened security and significant fan anticipation.
The men’s football tournament opens with Israel facing Mali amid an unprecedented security presence, while the Rugby Sevens tournament gets underway with a focus on French star Antoine Dupont.
Israeli footballers will make their Olympic debut against Mali under the watchful eye of 1,000 police officers, reflecting the heightened security measures in place.
Authorities have established an “anti-terrorist perimeter” around the stadium due to concerns about potential disruptions. A French police source indicated that there may be “insults from the stands” or disturbances such as “whistling and flags shown during the hymns.”
Israel’s participation has been controversial, drawing calls from the Palestinian Olympic Committee and some left-wing French MPs for the country to be barred due to the ongoing Gaza conflict.
However, French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that Israeli athletes are “welcome in our country” and assured that France is committed to providing them with adequate security.
In contrast, the Rugby Sevens tournament, which kicks off today, is set to be a highlight of the Games. The Stade de France will host the matches, with Antoine Dupont, regarded as one of the world’s top rugby players, drawing significant attention.
Dupont’s presence is expected to be a major draw for the estimated 555,000 fans expected to attend the six days of competition.
France is facing stiff competition in the Rugby Sevens, with double Olympic champions Fiji also in their pool. They will face off against the United States and Uruguay before a highly anticipated match against Fiji on Thursday. Other strong contenders include New Zealand, Australia, Argentina, and Ireland.
Preparations for the opening ceremony, which will take place on Friday, are underway with extensive security measures. This year’s ceremony, a historic first for the Summer Olympics to be held outside the main stadium, will feature athletes parading along the River Seine.
Approximately 6,000-7,000 athletes will travel down a six-kilometer stretch of the river on 85 barges and boats, with up to 500,000 spectators expected to watch from various vantage points.
Security has been tightened significantly around the River Seine, with snipers and frogmen deployed to prevent any potential attacks.
The entertainment lineup for the opening ceremony has not been fully disclosed, but rumors suggest that American pop star Lady Gaga might perform, following her recent appearance in Paris. Additionally, rapper Snoop Dogg will carry the Olympic flame during its final rounds before the ceremony.
In a developing controversy, a video emerged showing British dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin mistreating a horse.
The footage, which depicted Dujardin repeatedly whipping the animal, led to her ejection from the Games. Dujardin, a three-time Olympic gold medalist, has apologized for her actions, calling them an “error of judgment.”
Meanwhile, France’s ambition to host the 2030 Winter Olympics is already underway, with the French Alps selected by the International Olympic Committee.
However, the final decision depends on France’s ability to meet financial commitments, which are currently uncertain due to a lack of government following recent elections.
As the Paris Olympics officially begin, the stage is set for a dramatic and eventful start, with a blend of intense security measures, athletic brilliance, and a touch of controversy.
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