Paralympic officials have once again been compelled to revise the schedule for the three-part race due to concerns about the Seine river’s safety for swimming, as predictions of rain loom over the competition.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Paris 2024 organizers confirmed, “All 11 medal events will now take place on September 1, consolidating what was initially planned for September 1 and 2.”
Upon being awarded the 2024 Games, city officials highlighted their intention to promote Paris’s iconic sites while also addressing some of its less attractive features. A major goal has been to ensure the Seine becomes a swimmable (or “bathable,” as they like to call it) river, as City Hall aspires for both Games to leave a meaningful legacy beyond just the medal standings.
Deputy mayor Antoine Guillou noted during the Olympics, “We want the people of Paris to reconnect with their river and enjoy swimming in a natural setting, particularly in controlled areas where currents are safe. With climate change making summers hotter and the recent severe heatwaves, people will need cool places to escape the heat, and we hope the Seine can provide that sanctuary.”
Despite a significant investment of nearly €1.4 billion ($1.5 billion) aimed at enhancing water quality, ongoing water testing has created difficulties for organizers during both the Olympics and the Paralympics. The latest weather forecast, which predicts rain, has resulted in another two-day postponement of the swimming portion of the Paralympic triathlon, now set for Sunday, depending on weather conditions.
The Seine faced consistent challenges with water quality testing throughout a particularly wet spring and early summer, with E. coli levels—an indicator of fecal contamination—exceeding permissible limits by more than tenfold until early July. This issue remains a concern, just as it was during the Olympics three weeks ago. While many athletes shared they have competed in much worse water conditions, some reported feeling unwell after their races, though no serious issues were noted afterward.
In light of the weather forecast, the decision to consolidate all medal events into one day was made to provide athletes and coaches with greater certainty. The swimming course will remain the same, according to the Paris 2024 announcement.
The French capital envisions turning the Seine into a lively hub for gatherings and competitions, harkening back to its role in the 1900 Paris Olympics. However, despite extensive funding, public initiatives, and a vigorous public relations campaign from city officials, the grand vision has encountered numerous setbacks. Ongoing sewer issues and skepticism among residents and international media have led to several event cancellations.
Ultimately, all triathlon events proceeded in the Seine during the Olympics, despite some local dissent and athlete complaints. For the Paralympics, organizers have scheduled two backup days on September 2 and 3 to accommodate potential bad weather.
“Paris 2024 and World Triathlon will continue to monitor water quality and current flow daily. A familiarization swim for athletes successfully took place on the morning of August 29,” the organizers stated. “Decisions regarding familiarization swims on August 30 and 31, as well as the events on September 1, will be determined before each occurrence.”
