Paris 2024: A Model of Celebration and Inclusivity During the Olympic and Paralympic Games
The Olympic Games in Paris 2024 transformed the city into an exuberant celebration, with jubilant reactions emerging from both streets and public transport each time the French exhibited excellence in sports. The enthusiasm was palpable, marked by official fan zones that attracted a staggering 1.5 million attendees. With the Paralympic Games on the horizon, many of these celebration spaces are set to renew their vibrancy.
The initiative known as Clubs 2024, or “Terre de Jeux 2024,” comprises an expansive network of over 180 clubs scattered throughout France, including rural locales like Méral-en-Mayenne, as well as a substantial presence in the Paris region. Almost every arrondissement in Paris, with the exception of the 7th, is represented within the 26 designated sites managed by the City of Paris. These free venues aim to foster sustainability and accessibility, having commenced operations ahead of the Olympic Games and continuing until September 8.
Moreover, additional club activities were extended to regions such as French Polynesia, Guadeloupe, and Reunion Island, featuring a range of sports and cultural programs, live competition broadcasts on large screens, and opportunities to engage in various sports, including basketball and table tennis.
The Club 2024 site at the Hotel de Ville, or the Paris City Hall, stood out with remarkable daily attendance figures. The “Terrasse des Jeux” recorded nearly 25,000 visitors daily, surpassing expectations set by Pierre Rabadan, the deputy mayor responsible for sports in Paris, as reported by
Le Monde. Meanwhile, the innovative Champions Park, boasting a capacity of 13,000, was operational for nine days during the Olympic Games, designed by the Paris 2024 Athletes’ Commission. This venue, located at the Trocadero with scenic views of the Eiffel Tower, was a resounding success on its inaugural day, welcoming 26,000 individuals, though entry involved long wait times.
While Champions Park will not serve as a venue for the upcoming Paralympics, other celebration zones will be reinstated. Notably, Club France, a vibrant hub for French athletes and spectators, is poised to reopen on August 29, following the Paralympic opening ceremony. The success of Club France was illustrated by its attendance of over 600,000 visitors during the Olympics, exceeding 30,000 daily, with a nominal entry cost applied during the Olympics and free access envisaged for the Paralympics, subject to registration.
For the Paralympics, organizers will modify the layout of Club France, consolidating activities around the Grande Halle while ensuring the attendance of all French athletes—not just medalists. Élie Patrigeon, General Manager of the French Paralympic and Sports Committee, articulated ambitions to accommodate between 100,000 and 120,000 spectators from August 28 to September 8. Additionally, Club France is set to establish the Pride House, welcoming international athletes and promoting inclusivity during these significant sporting events.
In conclusion, Paris 2024 has successfully created a dynamic atmosphere through its innovative celebration sites during the Olympics, which are now being adapted for the Paralympics. The organizers’ efforts to engage the public and provide accessible sports experiences reflect a commitment to fostering community spirit and international camaraderie.
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