As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games continues, significant controversies and diverse stories emerge, from the hijab ban affecting athletes to political statements surrounding Israeli participation, all while preparations unfold for a grand celebration of sport.
As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games progresses, a range of issues and stories are emerging that set the stage for what promises to be an eventful and compelling international sports gathering.
Australian Muslim boxer Tina Rahimi has voiced her displeasure over France’s decision to bar the nation’s athletes from wearing the hijab during the Games. Rahimi, a 28-year-old from Bankstown in western Sydney, will be among the 12 Australian boxers—the largest contingent the country has ever sent—to participate in the event. The decision by French authorities, announced in April, has been attributed to upholding the principle of secularism by French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera.
Rahimi, who won a bronze medal in the featherweight division at last year’s Commonwealth Games, emphasised her gratitude for still being able to participate in her hijab. However, she expressed solidarity with French athletes affected by the ban, stating, “It’s very unfortunate for the athletes in France because it has nothing to do with their performance. It should not get in the way of you being an athlete. Everyone should be equal.”
France’s ban on hijabs has not only drawn domestic criticism but has also been condemned by international rights groups. Amnesty International has asserted that such bans lead to negative mental and physical consequences for women. Similarly, the United Nations Rights Office stressed that discriminatory practices against any group can have harmful repercussions.
In another development sparking controversy, MP Thomas Portes from the radical-left France Unbowed party has declared that Israeli athletes are not welcome at the Paris Games, citing Israel’s actions in Gaza as his reasoning. His remarks, delivered during a pro-Palestinian gathering, provoked a substantial backlash. Yonathan Arfi of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions in France condemned Portes’ comments as “indecent” and “irresponsible,” highlighting the historical context of the 1972 Munich Olympics, where 11 Israeli athletes were killed by Palestinian terrorists.
Portes later advocated for a ban on the Israeli flag and anthem at the Games, drawing criticism from several corners, including French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin, who identified “hints of antisemitism” in the MP’s comments. Israeli President Isaac Herzog is expected to attend the Games’ opening events, including a boat parade on the Seine and a commemoration for the victims of the 1972 tragedy.
As excitement builds, Paris is readying itself for a colourful and culinary welcome for the 15,000 athletes from around the world. A boulangerie installed at the entrance to the Olympic Village will bake thousands of baguettes, croissants, and other treats daily, encapsulating the essence of local French culture and providing a comforting welcome to arriving athletes.
Among those arriving in Paris are the acclaimed US gymnastics team, led by 27-year-old Simone Biles. Biles, participating in her third Olympic Games, shared behind-the-scenes glimpses of the team’s preparations on social media. The US team consists of four experienced Olympians and one newcomer, Hezly Rivera, indicating a strong potential for success.
On a historical note, Wales is sending its largest number of athletes to an overseas Olympic Games, with a record 31 competitors. The Welsh contingent includes teenage gymnast Ruby Evans and 39-year-old sailor Chris Grube, highlighting a wide age range among the athletes. Noteworthy participants include Matt Richards and Emma Finucane, both expected to shine following their individual world title victories last year. Additionally, Anna Hursey will make history as Wales’ first table tennis player at the Olympics, and sprinter Jeremiah Azu will be the first Welshman to race the 100m at the Olympics in over half a century.
As these stories unfold, they underscore the multifaceted and international nature of the Olympic Games, spotlighting issues ranging from cultural practices and political statements to personal and national athletic achievements. The Paris 2024 Olympics promise to be a rich tapestry of memorable moments, controversies, and athletic excellence.