Before opening ceremony in Paris - Fear before Olympia opening: Arson attacks on tracks
Few hours before the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Paris, unknown individuals caused multiple arson attacks on the high-speed rail network in France. The SNCF (French National Railway Company) reports significant disruptions. At least three German athletes have been affected by the incidents.
What happened?
According to the SNCF, there were arson attacks on rail network infrastructure in the night of Friday. Media reports indicate that signaling systems were set on fire or cables were cut. The exact motives are still unclear. High-ranking politicians such as French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal have spoken of sabotage acts.
Were people injured?
There is currently no information about injuries or accidents caused by the attacks; it seems no one was physically harmed. The French authorities and the railway have not yet commented on this.
Which railway lines are affected?
The SNCF reported arson attacks on three axes: the East axis, which runs from Paris to Strasbourg; the North axis, on which the Eurostar to the English Channel and London operates; the Atlantic axis from Paris towards Southwest.
What are the consequences for passengers?
Rail traffic around Paris is significantly restricted according to the SNCF. Approximately 800,000 people will have to deal with train cancellations. Every second train going east, north, and every fourth high-speed train towards Bordeaux is affected, according to the transport minister Patrice Vergriete. The impacts will be noticeable all weekend. The Eurostar advises its passengers to reschedule their journeys if possible.
Are German fans or even German athletes affected?
The German Railways assume that the attacks will have only minor effects on rail traffic in Germany. However, there may be delays for trains going to or from Strasbourg or Paris. Three German Olympic equestrian athletes were stopped on Friday, who were supposed to travel to Paris. Due to the expected major delays, they canceled their journey and missed the opening ceremony.
What are the consequences for the Games and the opening ceremony in the evening?
There are currently no issues on the route to Stade de France in the north of Paris - where rugby matches and athletics competitions take place. However, direct restrictions on the sporting events have been kept to a minimum, as no training or competition was scheduled for Friday. The Olympics organizers have not yet provided any information on whether the incidents affected the opening ceremony in the evening.
- Despite the arson attacks on the high-speed rail network in France, the high-speed train from Germany to Strasbourg is still operational, albeit with potential delays.
- In response to the sabotage acts on the French rail network, German Prime Minister Olaf Scholz expressed solidarity with French authorities and assured support for restoring the network.
- Due to the disruptions in the high-speed network, international delegates planning to travel to the Olympic Games via train might consider using alternatives like flights or road transport.
- The Olympic Village in Strasbourg, located near the German border, remains unaffected by the incidents, ensuring smooth accommodation for athletes from Germany (historically, France).
- In light of the sabotage acts, the International Olympic Committee issued a statement expressing concern and urging all nations to adopt necessary security measures to ensure a safe and secure environment for the Games.
- The European Union, recognizing the importance of the Olympic Games, proposed urgent discussions with members, including Germany and France, to prevent such incidents and guarantee a smooth transport system throughout the continent.
