23 July 2024 – “Everything is in place for the sport to begin, and for Olympism to be celebrated.” These were the words of the Organising Committee on the eve of the start of competitions at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
Speaking to the 142nd International Olympic Committee (IOC) Session in the French capital, the Paris 2024 team outlined their readiness, with the stage now set for sporting competition to get underway tomorrow (football and rugby sevens), and with excitement building ahead of Friday’s Opening Ceremony.
Talking about this anticipation, Organising Committee President Tony Estanguet said: “The emotions are building up, and I hope that you're ready to watch fantastic performances in this emblematic city. Only sport, and only the Olympic Games can provide this level of emotion.”
Estanguet was followed by Paris 2024 CEO Etienne Thobois, who said: “On the eve of the first competition day, three days from the Opening Ceremony, we are now down to the final stretch - with a strong determination to fix what needs to be fixed, to adapt what needs to be adapted, and to provide the best possible experience to the athletes and to all our clients, including media and spectators. Everything is in place for the sport to begin, and for Olympism to be celebrated.”
With Paris 2024’s preparations now being put into practice, the Chair of the IOC’s Paris 2024 Coordination Commission, Pierre-Olivier Beckers, shared his experience. He said: “I have certainly felt the energy and the enthusiasm. I'm very confident because I have been impressed with the quality of the teams in the venues. Everyone is committed to ensuring that the finishing touches are implemented, that the venues will be in the best possible condition to host the athletes, the spectators, the press, broadcasters - to host the world. This full focus mindset is crucial of course because, let us not be mistaken, the job is not finished. It is the next 20 days that will confirm the dreams, the vision, the innovations. The hard work of the past seven years will crystallise in the coming moments and days. And while it is only in 20 days that we will be able to define success, for sure, we already know that these Games are paving a new way for the future.”
He concluded: “All eyes are on Paris. This is your moment to shine. These are the Games we have been waiting for, for so long.”
Paris 2024’s presentation covered a wide range of topics, including their commitments to gender equality, sustainability and legacy, while also highlighting the Opening Ceremony. Embodying the Paris 2024 slogan “Games Wide Open”, it will be staged in the heart of the city in what will be a spectacular event showcasing the creativity and culture of the host nation. It will capture the excitement felt by fans both in France and across the world, and the athletes competing at these Games.
The Olympic Games Paris 2024 will begin on 26 July and finish on 11 August. The Paralympic Games will then run from 28 August until 8 September. Tickets for both Games can be purchased.
