IOC President Thomas Bach confident of successful Paris Games
Sports
IOC Approves Paris As Host Of 2024 Winter Olympics Amid COVID-19 Concerns
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach has expressed confidence in the upcoming Winter Olympics set to take place in Paris, France. The IOC's executive board approved the selection of Paris as the city that will host the 2024 Winter Olympics at its meeting on Tuesday, July 19, 2016.
During the vote, Bach praised the French government for its commitment to hosting the event, saying, "We are very happy that the French government has decided to host the 2024 Winter Olympics. We have been working hard since 2005 to organize these games, and we believe that this will be an unforgettable experience for athletes and spectators alike."
Bach added, "I am also looking forward to the exciting sports events that the organizers have planned for us. I am particularly pleased that the snowboarding competitions will feature world-class athletes from around the globe."
The Olympic Games have traditionally been held every four years since their first installment was held in 1896. However, due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, the International Athletics Federation had recommended that the sporting competition be postponed to a later date until a suitable venue can be found.
With Paris being chosen as the location for the upcoming Winter Olympics, the IOC has expressed excitement at the prospect of staging the event under new safety protocols designed to minimize the risks associated with the virus.
"We understand the importance of maintaining safety while ensuring that all participating nations can compete fairly," said Bach. "We have worked closely with the International Snow Sports Federation (FIS) and the World Curling Federation (WCF) to ensure that the host city is prepared to accommodate the needs of all athletes involved in curling, bobsledding, skeleton racing, and other snow sports."
Following the success of the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea, the IOC has expressed confidence that the same level of quality and excitement will be evident at the upcoming Winter Olympics in Paris.
"Paris is known for its beauty, and I believe that this year's games will be an opportunity to showcase this marvelous city to the world," said Bach. "I have no doubt that the French government will make sure that we have a safe and enjoyable experience."
Forbes contributor Jim Wheeler summed up the mood among fans of the sport by noting, "It seems like these events are a great way for athletes to come together regardless of where they live or what their political beliefs may be. This will be a great opportunity to see the world come together and celebrate one of the most exciting and thrilling winter sports competitions yet."
The upcoming Winter Olympics will feature many exciting events, including figure skating, skiing, snowboarding, and more. Athletes from around the globe will take to the slopes of Chamonix, St. Gervais, La Plagne, and other venues throughout France to compete in the many disciplines that make up snow sports.
Overall, the IOC's decision to approve Paris as the host city for the 2024 Winter Olympics has been met with a mixture of relief and enthusiasm from athletes and officials alike. While there may be some concerns regarding the safety measures put in place, fans of the sport can rest assured that the competition will be fair and exciting, and will serve as another opportunity for the athletes to shine on the international stage.
