Concerns about the quality of the Seine threaten the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The imminent arrival of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games has sparked a flurry of expectations and emotions on an international level. However, the Seine River, which has unexpectedly become a key player in these Games, has posed a series of challenges that have raised concerns among organizers, athletes, and the public. While the Seine offered an impressive backdrop for the opening ceremony, its water quality has been a source of controversy in the days leading up to the competition. On July 26th, under torrential rain, the Seine presented itself to the world as a symbol of Parisian culture. The ceremony, designed by director Thomas Jolly, aimed to encapsulate the Olympic and Parisian spirit in an unprecedented event. However, the celebration was overshadowed by the reality that the Seine's water was not suitable for swimming, forcing organizers to postpone several competitions, including the triathlon and open water swimming. Tony Estanguet, president of the Organizing Committee, could not hide his frustration, describing the river's conditions as "dantesque." Continuous rain, which has affected water quality, resulted in only five of the 11 planned days for competitions and training being approved by international federations. This situation has raised concerns among both organizers and athletes, who rely on these conditions for safe competition. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has defended the river's cleanliness and the promise to allow Parisians to swim in its waters next summer. "The Seine is decontaminated," she insisted, challenging the negative perception presented in the media. However, the reality is that during a crucial part of the Olympic Games, the river did not meet the necessary standards for swimming, which could impact the city's image during one of the world's most important sporting events. Despite these setbacks, organizers assure that measures have been taken to ensure the safety of athletes. Pierre Rabadan, the mayor's Olympic deputy, stated that although the conditions were complicated, all competitions were held with water quality that did not jeopardize athletes' health. However, this statement contrasts with the experiences faced during the summer, where abnormal rainfall complicated testing and planning. Concerns about the Seine's water quality are not new. Authorities have pointed out that the increased flow of the river due to rainfall has contributed to pollution, and the situation has been exacerbated by climate change. Experts such as climatologist Robert Vautard have warned that intense rainfall is a more frequent phenomenon associated with global warming, making the scenario even more uncertain. In response to these challenges, the French government and local entities have invested 1.4 billion euros in river decontamination projects. These investments have led to the installation of structures aimed at improving water quality and ensuring that the Seine is a safe space for swimming during the Olympic Games. However, the effectiveness of these measures is under scrutiny, especially in a context where extreme rainfall is becoming increasingly common. The Seine, despite its difficulties, remains a symbol of the city and French culture. The image of triathletes jumping from the iconic Alexandre III bridge is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Olympic Games. However, this radiant image contrasts with the underlying reality of a river struggling to meet the required quality standards. As we approach the opening of the Games, the pressure on Parisian authorities and organizers will only increase. The promise of a clean Seine suitable for swimming is an ambitious goal, but the combination of climatic factors and the challenge of maintaining water quality raises difficult questions about the feasibility of this vision. Ultimately, the Paris 2024 Olympic Games represent not only a celebration of sport but also a reflection of the environmental challenges facing contemporary cities. The story of the Seine is, in many ways, an allegory of urban struggles to adapt to a changing world while striving to meet the expectations of an event that seeks to unite the world through sport. The lingering question is whether the Seine will manage to stay afloat amid these adverse circumstances and become a symbol of success, rather than a reminder of the challenges we still face.