The 2024 Olympics in Paris is set to be the largest event ever organized in France and is scheduled to be held from July 26 to August 11.

As the world eagerly anticipates the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, the spirit of unity and global camaraderie is more palpable than ever. Paris, often dubbed the City of Light, will shine even brighter as it welcomes athletes, spectators, and enthusiasts from every corner of the globe. This monumental event is not just a showcase of athletic prowess but a celebration of humanity’s collective spirit and determination.

Millions of spectators will attend in person, filling 35 venues in and around Paris, while 10,500 athletes from over 200 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team will compete in 329 events over 19 days.

This edition of the Olympics, the XXXIII Olympiad, will feature 36 sports, including four additional ones introduced to enhance the programmer and engage youth.

These additional sports—breaking, sport climbing, skateboarding, and surfing—reflect the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) commitment to inclusivity, gender balance, sustainability and youth-centric activities

Environmental sustainability is also a key focus for Paris 2024, with efforts to minimize the Games’ ecological footprint. This includes using existing venues, incorporating temporary structures, and promoting public transportation to reduce carbon emissions.

New events in 2024

Breaking, also known as breakdancing, will make its Olympic debut at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This event reflects the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) initiative to include more youth-oriented and urban sports, making the Olympics more appealing to younger audiences.

Event Format

• Competitions: The breaking event will feature one-on-one battles, where athletes, known as B-boys and B-girls, compete against each other.
• Judging Criteria: Performances will be evaluated based on a combination of technique, style, creativity, and musicality. Judges will look at elements like power moves, and freezes.
• Venue: The breaking competitions will be held in a vibrant and urban setting in Paris, designed to reflect the sport’s street origins.
• Spectacular Show: With its dynamic and acrobatic moves, breaking is expected to be one of the most visually exciting and crowd-pleasing events at the Paris Olympics.
• Inspiration: The inclusion of breaking in the Olympics will inspire a new generation of dancers and bring greater recognition to the art form.

Breaking at the 2024 Paris Olympics is a significant milestone for the sport, highlighting its evolution from street dance to a globally recognized competitive event.

Returning and dropped sports

Surfing, having debuted in Tokyo, will continue at Paris 2024 but will take place in Teahupo’o, Tahiti, known for its challenging waves, from July 27 to August 4.

Skateboarding, which also first appeared in Tokyo, will return with men’s and women’s street and park events held at Place de La Concorde, with finals on July 27-28 and August 6-7.

3×3 basketball, introduced in Tokyo 2020, will be back with the finals on August 5. The U.S. men’s lineup, led by Jimmer Fredette, aims to unseat Latvia, the reigning champ

Softball, closely linked with baseball, faced similar challenges but returned to the Olympic stage in 2020 and will feature in 2028. But is dropped from the 2024 Olympics.

Karate, despite a successful debut in Tokyo 2020, was surprisingly omitted from Paris 2024. The decision was based on concerns about its entertainment value and ability to attract a younger audience, with the “kata” division skewing towards older competitors

New and changed formats

Other changes at Paris 2024 include the changes in formats such as the inclusion of men in artistic swimming for the first time and a new team acrobatic routine round. Boxing will see a new women’s weight class and a reduction in men’s categories, now featuring seven men’s and six women’s weight classes.

 Paris Olympics 2024 | Eiffel Tower medals, swimming in the Seine and the idea of sport as a unifying force

Sport climbing will feature a new format with separate bouldering and lead combined events and a speed event, increasing the number of athletes from 40 to 68. The speed finals are scheduled for August 7-8, while the bouldering and lead combined medals will be awarded on August 9-10.

Sailing will add two kite events and change boat categories, totaling 10 events. In shooting, the mixed skeet team event will replace the mixed team trap event.

Track and field will introduce a marathon race walk mixed relay and a repackage round for races between 200m and 1500m, giving athletes a second chance to qualify for semifinals.

Volleyball teams will be split into three pools of four instead of two pools of six, and weightlifting will reduce its weight classes from 14 to 10. 

A Historic Occasion

The Paris 2024 Olympics mark a significant milestone in the history of the Games. It will be the third time Paris has hosted the Olympics, following the 1900 and 1924 Games. This centennial celebration is set to be a grand affair, blending the rich history and modern advancements of the city to create an unforgettable experience.

The Essence of Unity

The Olympics have always been about more than just competition; they are a powerful symbol of peace and unity. In a world often divided by differences, the Games remind us of our shared humanity. Athletes from diverse backgrounds and cultures come together, embodying the Olympic motto: “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.” This spirit of togetherness is particularly poignant in Paris, a city known for its cultural diversity and inclusivity.

Sustainability and Innovation

Paris 2024 is committed to being the most sustainable Olympic Games yet. With a focus on environmental responsibility, the organizers have implemented various green initiatives. From eco-friendly transportation options to sustainable venues, Paris is setting a new standard for future host cities. The Games will feature cutting-edge technology and innovations, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint while maximizing the spectator experience.

The Legacy of Paris 2024

Beyond the excitement of the Games themselves, Paris 2024 aims to leave a lasting legacy. The focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation will inspire future generations and set a new benchmark for Olympic hosts. The infrastructure improvements and community initiatives will benefit the city long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Paris 2024 Olympics are poised to be a landmark event, bringing together the best of humanity in a celebration of athletic excellence, cultural diversity, and global unity. As we count down to the opening ceremony, the excitement builds, and the world prepares to witness history in the making. Paris 2024 is not just an Olympic Games; it is a testament to the power of sport to transcend boundaries and to bring people together in a shared spirit of hope and joy.