Biggest controversies at the Paris Olympics 2024
Overview:
Explore the top controversies surrounding the Paris Olympics 2024, including Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification, Jordan Chiles’ medal stripping, concerns about the water quality of the Seine River, incidents involving Luana Alonso, and the arrest of Australian hockey player Tom Craig. Delve into how these scandals have impacted the Games and sparked global debate.
1. Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification due to overweight
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the Paris 2024 Olympics after being found 100 grams overweight in the 50kg category during the weigh-in process on the day of her final. Her disqualification also nullified her previous semifinal win against a Cuban wrestler, who was then allowed to compete in the final. Phogat has appealed the decision to the ad-hoc division of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), with a verdict still pending.
For more details on this controversy: Vinesh Phogat disqualified from Paris Olympics 50kg wrestling final for being overweight, misses historic medal – The Hindu
(Photo: Twitter)
2. Gender controversy surrounding Imane Khelif
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif came to the limelight when Italian boxer Angela Carini withdrew from their Round-16 match, leading to accusations about Khelif’s gender identity. This sparked a heated debate on social media, with notable figures like J.K. Rowling and Elon Musk sharing their opinions. Despite the criticisms, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) supported Khelif, and many provided evidence of her gender identity to counter the accusations. It’s worth noting that Khelif ultimately won the gold medal in her respective weight category, despite the initial controversy.
Iman Khelif to take legal actions against gender harassment on social media during the Olympics? Read this: Imane Khelif takes legal action against online harassment amid gender controversy: ‘I want to change minds…’ – Hindustan Times
3. Luana Alonso’s inappropriate behaviour
Luana Alonso, a 20-year-old swimmer from Paraguay competing in the 100m butterfly at the Paris 2024 Olympics, has become the centre of controversy after being expelled from the Olympic Village. Alonso, who did not advance to the semifinals and announced her retirement from swimming during the Games, was reportedly seen leaving the village to visit tourist attractions, including Disneyland Paris. The Paraguayan Olympic Committee, requested her removal, citing that her presence had created an “inappropriate environment” for the team.
(Photo: Luana’s Instagram)
4. Thomas Ceccon’s Sleeping in Park Incident:
Italian swimmer Thomas Ceccon, who won gold in the 100m backstroke event and bronze in the 4x100m freestyle event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, has drawn attention for sleeping in a park near the Olympic Village. This incident highlights concerns about athlete accommodations, particularly due to the Green Olympic Games Initiative. The initiative, which promotes environmental sustainability, includes a strict ban on air conditioning within the Olympic Village. Combined with the hot Paris weather, this restriction led to excessive heat and discomfort, prompting Ceccon and other athletes to seek cooler refuge outdoors. The situation has sparked a debate about balancing eco-friendly policies with the practical needs of athletes, raising questions about whether the accommodations are adequately supporting their well-being.
5. Jordan Chiles stripped of Bronze medal
American gymnast Jordan Chiles’ bronze medal in the floor exercise event has been the centre of controversy. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) overturned an appeal filed by Chiles’ coach, which initially secured her third place. The ruling stated that the appeal was made 4 seconds beyond the allowed time limit. This decision has brought attention to the complexities and challenges associated with Olympic scoring and appeals.
Read more: Jordan Chiles stripped of bronze medal in Paris, USA Olympic officials to appeal
(Photo: Twitter)
6. Concerns over Seine River water quality
The Seine River, used for several Olympic events during Paris 2024, was mired in controversy over its water quality. Between the start of the Olympics on July 26 and August 7, pollution levels frequently exceeded safety limits, with E. coli and enterococci concentrations surpassing standards set by World Triathlon. As a result, the triathlon events were postponed. The situation was further highlighted when an Irish Olympian was recently hospitalized after competing in the Seine, intensifying concerns about the river’s suitability for Olympic competitions.
This news has just surfaced a few hours ago and to know more on this read: Another Paris Olympics 2024 Controversy? Irish Olympian Hospitalised After Seine Swim
7. Australian Hockey player Tom Craig’s arrest
Australian field hockey player Tom Craig was arrested in Paris for attempting to purchase cocaine. The arrest also involved a 17-year-old alleged drug dealer, drawing attention to issues of athlete behaviour and the potential impact of such actions on the reputation of the Games.
8. Food quality at the Olympic Village
The food quality at the Olympic Village has been criticized by athletes, who reported that meals were unseasoned and, in some cases, contained worms. The mixed reviews reflect the challenges of catering to the diverse dietary needs of thousands of athletes and have sparked discussions about the adequacy of the provided meals.
For insights into the food quality issues, check this article: Olympic athletes in Paris cry foul over village food | Olympic Games News
Conclusion
The Paris Olympics 2024 have been marked by a range of high-profile controversies, from Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification and Jordan Chiles’ stripped medal to issues with Seine River water quality, Luana’s eccentric behaviour, and accommodation concerns. The controversy extended further with the inclusion of a performance during the opening ceremony that drew widespread criticism for its resemblance to Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” sparking debates about cultural sensitivity.
These controversies signify the complexities and challenges of hosting a major global sporting event. They highlight the need for effective solutions to address issues of fairness, safety, and cultural sensitivity, ensuring the success and integrity of the Olympics while managing the diverse needs and expectations of athletes and the global audience.
For more on the 2024 Paris Olympic Games controversy read: Top 2024 Paris Olympics Controversies explained