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JO 2024: we finally have a plan B for the opening ceremony

undefined undefined 15 juin 2024 undefined 15h00

undefined undefined 17 juin 2024 undefined 13h25

The Editor

© Evgenii Tsvirkun / Shutterstock

After months of assuring us that no plan B would be necessary for the opening ceremony, it seems that the organizing committee has finally come to its senses. And after various scenarios mentioned here and there, things are finally falling into place! And less than 45 days away from the festivities, we can say it was about time.

Rain or shine, or even snow - which is not out of the question given the recent weather - the opening ceremony of the Olympics will take place in less than 40 days. But will it be held on the Seine? That's not certain. And if not, what about plan B? While some had mentioned the Stade de France, it seems we are leaning towards a huge parade between the Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower, to showcase the newly installed Olympic rings.


A Necessary Backup Plan

On July 26th, over 180 boats, including more than 90 carrying athletes, are expected on the Seine River to start the competition. However, we are not immune to a last-minute cancellation, as the Seine is still facing criticism. First, because of issues with levels of fecal bacteria, and then due to bad weather and strong currents, which have already led to the cancellation of the event rehearsal and even Mayor Anne Hidalgo's swim in the river.

So, it is with a lot of relief that some people welcome this announcement, as given the latest news.Not to mention Netflix's latest masterpiece Under the Seine), we are not feeling very serene about the idea of having to approach the water's edge in the coming weeks. It will be wise to have a backup plan.It will then be on the Pont d'Iéna, and not under it, that athletes should meet for a proper parade, unfortunately without spectators. Indeed, if plan A falls through (pun intended), goodbye to the 200,000 or so seats along the docks.

But for now, let's take it easy, everything is still going smoothly along the Seine, and will probably continue that way until the end (barring any unexpected circumstances), with closures of bridges, quays, and metro stations en masse coming up. A new rehearsal date has even been scheduled for June 24th. Hopefully, this time, the rehearsal can actually happen, which is still uncertain. And if the ceremony gets moved, it's still unclear if the few swimming events that are supposed to take place in the Seine will happen or not...