In the outskirts of Paris, a 10-year-old girl named Lyla Kebbi eagerly anticipates the end of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Her swimming club will inherit an Olympic pool that will be dismantled and transported to Sevran, a town in the Paris area, providing a new training facility for her and her team.
The Paris Olympics, set to begin in 100 days, aim to not only dazzle with a waterborne opening ceremony but also leave a positive impact on disadvantaged suburbs like Seine-Saint-Denis. This region, known for its diversity and economic challenges, will benefit from new and refurbished sports infrastructure as part of the Games' legacy.
While critics question the value of hosting mega-events like the Olympics in a world facing climate crises, Paris is striving to set a new standard for sustainable and socially impactful Games. By focusing on benefiting communities like Seine-Saint-Denis, the city hopes to demonstrate a more desirable model for future host cities.
Despite concerns about security, costs, and potential disruptions, Paris' Olympic expenses are comparatively lower than recent host cities like Tokyo, Rio, and London. With a budget of close to 9 billion euros, funded largely by sponsors and ticket sales, the Games aim to balance spectacle with practicality.
Sevran Mayor Stéphane Blanchet emphasizes the long-term benefits of the Olympics for the region, highlighting the importance of ensuring that the Games leave a lasting positive impact. The hope is that the Paris Olympics will not only bring joy and excitement but also contribute to the well-being and development of communities in and around the city.
As the world eagerly awaits the Paris Olympics, there is a sense of optimism that the Games can serve as a unifying force, bringing people together across cultural, ethnic, and religious divides. Despite challenges and uncertainties, the spirit of the Olympics remains a beacon of hope and unity for participants and spectators alike.
