Organizers of the Paris 2024 Olympics have postponed the men's triathlon. This decision was made due to concerns about water pollution. The city planned to make the river a key part of the games, showcasing it during the opening ceremony and two swimming events.
To ensure athlete safety, the city invested $1.4 billion in infrastructure improvements. This investment aimed to control the overflow of the surge system during heavy rain. Overflow can lead to bacteria and wastewater entering the river. Just last week, the mayor of Paris took a swim to show the river was safe for athletes and spectators.
However, heavy rains on Friday night continued through Saturday. This caused pollution levels in the river to exceed safe limits. As a result, organizers prioritized the health of the athletes and decided to move the men's triathlon to Wednesday. The women's event had already taken place.
The decision highlights the ongoing challenge of managing city infrastructure amid unpredictable weather. Efforts to improve the river's condition will continue, ensuring it remains a focal point for future events.