French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that the opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics may be moved from the River Seine to the national stadium due to security concerns. The event, scheduled for July 26, involves a parade along the Seine with 10,500 athletes on boats. Macron stated that if security risks are deemed too high, the itinerary of the parade may be shortened, or the ceremony could be relocated to the Stade de France. The decision comes as France remains on high security alert ahead of the Olympics and Paralympics.
Originally, organizers had planned a grandiose opening ceremony for up to 600,000 spectators along the riverbanks, but due to security and logistical concerns, the government has scaled back its ambitions. The number of spectators has been reduced to around 300,000, and tourists will not have free access to watch the ceremony. Instead, access will be by invitation only. Despite the changes, Macron emphasized that plans for the opening ceremony remain the same for now, calling it a world first that will be carried out. Security measures will include setting up perimeters days in advance, using drone systems, cyber protection, and implementing road traffic restrictions in the high-security zone.
Concerns about security at the opening ceremony were raised by viewers, prompting Macron to reassure them that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure safety. He acknowledged the risks present in everyday life, but reiterated the government’s commitment to providing a secure environment for the event. Macron also expressed his desire to establish an Olympic truce for the Paris Games, citing current conflicts in the Middle East, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and the crisis in Sudan. He plans to engage with international partners, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, to work towards a diplomatic moment of peace during the Olympics.
In addition to ensuring security for the event, Macron addressed the participation of Russian and Israeli athletes in the games. Russian athletes will compete under a neutral flag following the Ukraine invasion, and Israeli athletes will participate under their country’s flag despite the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Macron defended Israel’s response as self-defense against terrorist attacks. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the spirit of the Olympics as a platform for international cooperation and peace. The French president’s statements come amid ongoing preparations for the Paris Olympics, with a focus on security, diplomatic efforts for an Olympic truce, and addressing concerns over athlete participation.
