Tickets for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be issued electronically to prevent paper forgery, a precaution highlighted by the event’s organizing committee chair Tony Estanguet after recent security incidents. This move aims to streamline access with a highly efficient system and prevent the chaotic scenes that have occurred in the past.
With exactly two years remaining before the Games begin, the former Olympic and world canoe champion attended a ministerial meeting led by French President Emmanuel Macron. The session reviewed preparations and the main challenges, including security, for the event.
The opening ceremony will take place along the Seine in central Paris and is expected to attract at least 600,000 attendees, making it a focal point of heightened security for the Games. The French Court of Accounts previously warned that security must be strengthened for this ceremony, given it will be the first Olympics opening held outdoors in an open space rather than indoors.
Safety remains the central concern, with the organizing committee having discussed the security device for the opening ceremony for more than a year. The chair noted that the chosen approach reflects a balance between practicality and protection, ensuring a smooth and secure event for athletes and spectators alike.
If the decision to stage the opening in an outdoor setting was made, it is because security capabilities allow it without compromising safety. The absolute priority is to avoid risks for both competitors and the public, though there are still elements that require fine tuning, Estanguet emphasized.
Government officials announced a substantial security presence, with daily deployments of between 7,000 and 11,000 police officers, excluding the opening ceremony, and approximately 17,000 private security personnel on a daily basis.
They reveal the slogan: “Let’s open the games in a big way”
During a briefing at the Olympic Organization Center in Saint-Denis, the official motto of the Paris Games was unveiled: Let’s Open the Games Large. The phrase signals ambition and action while underscoring the country’s readiness to host a vibrant, inclusive, and durable Games that reach a broad audience.
Estanguet stated that the slogan captures both energy and purpose. He described the Games as an opportunity to showcase France to the world, with accessibility for the majority and a spirit that is bold and enduring. The slogan was chosen for its clarity and impact, making it easy to communicate across audiences.
In terms of ticketing, the organizers announced that around 10 million tickets will go on sale in stages starting in December 2022. Pricing details show a broad range, with approximately 10 percent of tickets priced modestly at around 24 euros, while a small portion, about 8 percent, will be valued at 200 euros or more to reflect premium events and seating.
The 2024 Olympic program also clarified the testing measures in place. The men’s marathon is scheduled for the penultimate day of competition and, as tradition dictates, will welcome a strong field of female competitors who are expected to excel in the final stages. In another scheduling note, the women’s basketball event will conclude the medal rounds, marking a notable shift in the event order.
Officials also emphasized ongoing evaluations of security protocols and event readiness, aiming to deliver a memorable and safe experience for athletes and fans alike. The focus remains on delivering a world class showcase that aligns with France’s capacity for large-scale, open air celebrations while maintaining the highest security standards. [CITATION: Paris 2024 Organizing Committee]