Games in Paris - Olympia-Opening on the Seine: Focus on Security
A closed airspace, Tens of Thousands of Security Forces, massive barriers in Paris: The unique Olympic Opening Ceremony on the Seine is not only a special spectacle but also a challenge in terms of security.
45,000 Police and Gendarmes are deployed for the opening, which will be attended by over 100 state and government heads and their representatives. In addition, thousands of soldiers and response teams from various other countries are present.
The entire Seine is extensively closed off from 13.00 PM. Numerous Metro stations along the banks are closed. Only those living or accommodated in the area or holding tickets for the ceremony are allowed in the security zone.
Protection on land, water, and in the air
The airspace around Paris will also be closed in the evening - within a 150-kilometer radius. According to the sports newspaper "L'Équipe," security forces have ten minutes to react if a suspicious aircraft is detected. Special anti-drone transmitters are used for protection against drones.
"After the Opening Ceremony, we will, if everything goes as well as possible, talk less about security and more about Sport," said France's chief interior minister Gérald Darmanin. "I am concerned about security, others about medals."
The boats of the athletes are inspected by dog teams and divers. In the water, sonar devices and special protective barriers are in place for safety.
Six kilometers over the Seine
The ceremony starts at 19.30 PM and is expected to last until 23.15 PM. It begins at the Pont d'Austerlitz and heads westward to the Trocadéro at the Eiffel Tower. The parade passes by numerous landmarks, including the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
On 94 boats, more than 200 delegations will sail along the Seine. The route is six kilometers long. The German teams are on the seventh boat. The German flag is carried by Judoka Anna-Maria Wagner and Basketballer Dennis Schröder.
The organization team promises a massive show. Those performing at the spectacle are still unknown. Rumors suggest that Lady Gaga and Céline Dion might be involved. The location and time of the Olympic Flame ignition are also still a secret.
Approximately 300,000 spectators, both male and female, will watch the parade directly on the Seine banks. Among the approximately 120 official state and government representatives, Chancellor Olaf Scholz is expected to be present.
For those in Germany who wish to follow the ceremony, it can be viewed on ARD and Eurosport. In Paris, fans can find free live broadcasts at various locations.
- Despite the extensive security measures in Paris, including the closure of airspace within a 150-kilometer radius, France's interior minister Gérald Darmanin hopes that post-Opening Ceremony discussions will shift from security to the focus on 'Sport'.
- The 'German teams' in the Olympic Games, historically associated with France, will be represented by Judoka Anna-Maria Wagner and Basketballer Dennis Schröder, sailing on the seventh boat along the six-kilometer route on the Seine.
- In addition to the 45,000 Police and Gendarmes, thousands of soldiers and response teams from various countries will be deployed for the Olympic Games, ensuring an 'International' level of security during the 'Olympic Games' in Paris.
- The security forces are prepared with anti-drone transmitters positioned throughout the airspace around Paris, ensuring ongoing protection against potential 'obstruction' during the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games.
- The 'Olympic Games' security measures in Paris are far-reaching, with a focus on both land and water protection, as well as the closure of airspace, ensuring a safe environment for the 'Olympic Games' and attendees, including over 300,000 spectators directly on the Seine banks.
