Macron Suggests Moving Olympic Opening Ceremony to Stadium for Safety Concerns
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that the opening ceremony for the Paris Olympics, initially planned on the River Seine, could be moved to the national stadium if security concerns arise.
With France on high security alert in anticipation of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, special attention is being given to the opening ceremony. The ceremony involves boats carrying athletes along the Seine on a 6-kilometer parade and large crowds gathering on the embankments.
In an interview with French media BFM-TV and RMC, Mr. Macron emphasized the mobilization of France’s law enforcement forces for the security of the open-air event. He mentioned having backup plans in place if the security risk is deemed too high.
The unique July 26 event will see about 10,500 athletes parading through the heart of Paris on boats traveling along the Seine, culminating in front of the Trocadéro.
Related Stories
To mitigate security risks, Mr. Macron mentioned the option to shorten the parade route on the Seine or relocate the ceremony to the Stade de France for a more conventional opening event. Organizers have already scaled back their initial plans for the ceremony due to security and logistical concerns.
Notably, access to the opening ceremony will be restricted to invitees only, following the French government’s decision regarding tourists’ free access.
Regarding the potential relocation to the stadium, the chief of security at the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, Nicole Deal, stressed the importance of providing the best experience for the athletes while ensuring security as a priority.
Mr. Macron affirmed that, at present, the plans for the opening ceremony remain unchanged, expressing confidence in the ability to host the world’s first Olympic opening ceremony outside a stadium setting.
France’s history of facing deadly terrorist attacks has prompted heightened security measures for the event, with Mr. Macron highlighting the installation of security perimeters and advanced safeguarding technologies.
Amid global conflicts, Mr. Macron also emphasized the importance of promoting an Olympic truce during the Paris Games, upholding the tradition of unity and peace through sports.
