PARIS, France: The Paris Olympics began with significant turmoil on Wednesday as men’s football matches commenced, and a massive police operation was deployed for Israel’s first appearance at the Games.
Football Drama and Security
The men’s football tournament kicked off in Saint-Etienne with Morocco defeating Argentina 2-1. The match ended controversially when a late equalizer by Argentina’s Cristian Medina was disallowed for offside after a lengthy review. The game saw chaos as spectators threw projectiles onto the field, causing the match to be temporarily halted. The players returned two hours later to complete the final minutes in an empty stadium. Argentina’s coach, Javier Mascherano, condemned the events, calling them a disgrace.
Simultaneously, Israel’s football team faced Mali in Paris under heavy security. Over 1,000 police officers were on duty, and an “anti-terrorist perimeter” was established due to concerns over potential disruptions. Israel’s participation has been contentious, with calls for exclusion from the Games by the Palestine Olympic Committee and some French MPs. Despite the tension and presence of Palestinian and Israeli flags, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin confirmed that no security incidents occurred.
Rugby and Olympic Announcements
At the Stade de France, Antoine Dupont, hailed as the world’s best rugby player, led his team to the quarter-finals. France secured their spot with a 12-12 draw against the United States and a 19-12 win over Uruguay. Fiji also advanced to the knockout stages with victories over Uruguay and the United States.
As preparations continue for Friday’s opening ceremony along the Seine, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced the host cities for future Winter Games. The French Alps will host the 2030 Winter Games, while Salt Lake City was awarded the 2034 event. However, the IOC warned Salt Lake City could lose its hosting rights if the US continues its feud with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). This warning came in response to the US anti-doping agency’s (USADA) criticisms of WADA, particularly following the controversy involving 23 Chinese swimmers cleared to compete in the Tokyo Olympics despite testing positive for banned substances.
Security and Celebrity Appearances
Friday’s opening ceremony promises to be a historic event, featuring a parade of athletes on 85 barges sailing along a six-kilometer stretch of the River Seine towards the Eiffel Tower. Approximately 500,000 spectators are expected to watch, with tight security measures in place, including snipers and frogmen to prevent waterborne attacks.
Rumors of high-profile performances have also emerged, with videos suggesting US pop star Lady Gaga might be among the entertainers. Additionally, American rapper Snoop Dogg will carry the Olympic flame as it nears the opening ceremony.
Scandals
The Games have already seen their share of scandals. British dressage specialist Charlotte Dujardin, one of the nation’s most decorated Olympians, was suspended after a video showed her mistreating a horse during training. The footage depicted Dujardin whipping the animal, leading to her suspension and potential loss of opportunity to become Britain’s most successful female Olympian.
Another scandal involved the Canadian women’s football team. Assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joey Lombardi were sent home after being caught spying on New Zealand’s training session using a drone. Lombardi received a suspended eight-month prison sentence after pleading guilty in court.
As the Paris Olympics continue, these events underscore the challenges and controversies that can arise, impacting the spirit and integrity of the Games.
