The Bitter Memory of the Seine River in the Minds of Olympic Athletes
Despite extensive promotions by the Paris Olympic organizers and the efforts of city and national officials regarding the appeal of this important river in Paris, the pollution of this historic and significant French river was a major puzzle that had confronted officials long before the games began.
The French authorities widely advertised the heavy cost of 14 billion euros for cleaning and ensuring the water’s safety for hosting water sports competitions. The mayor even swam in the river to guarantee that the water would not pose any problems for swimmers. Apart from the various issues and challenges related to athletes’ food and accommodations, which might not be new and have been subjects of complaints in all Olympic periods, the pollution of the Seine was an exceptional matter. The whispers of the water being contaminated turned serious with the hospitalization of a Belgian female athlete after her competition in this river, and many athletes openly stated that although they compete in this river, they are certain the water is polluted. Recent tests by the French water company confirmed that on many days of the water sports competitions in the Seine, the water was not safe or usable for athletes. This proven reality and the heavy cost leave a bitter memory of the Paris Olympics.