Paris 2024 Olympics chief vows ring of steel at opening ceremony amid fears ISIS could target Games
THE Paris Olympics chief has promised a ring of steel at the opening ceremony amid fears it may have to be moved due to terror threats.
Tony Estanguet insisted that “security is the priority” to ensure the safety of 15million fans and more than 10,000 athletes.
But the July 26 ceremony along the River Seine — the first not held in a stadium — has already been scaled back from 600,000 spectators to 300,000.
IS threats which saw extra security at last week’s Champions League footie matches have raised fears the Games could also be a target.
French president Emmanuel Macron said the ceremony may have to be downsized.
But in an interview to mark 100 days to go until the 2024 Games, Mr Estanguet hailed security preparations.
The former slalom canoeist, a three-times Olympic gold medallist, said: “You can have confidence with this event. Security is the priority.
“We should not be too naive. We know people would try to benefit from this international media exposure.
“But it’s up to us to remain calm and to promote and defend what is most important. And for me, it’s sport.
“We are looking forward to welcoming the world in Paris.”
The 10,500 athletes from 203 nations will take to boats on the Seine, watched by one billion globally.
There will be 30,000 police, 15,000 soldiers and 22,000 security guards on duty.
Alternative plans include switching the ceremony to the Stade de France or Place du Trocadero, across the river from the Eiffel Tower.