The Olympic Men’s Triathlon Postponed

The Olympic men’s individual triathlon at Paris 2024 has rescheduled due to water quality issues in the River Seine. Originally set to start at 07:00 BST (08:00 local time) on Tuesday, the race will now take place on Wednesday at 09:45 BST (10:45 local time), following the women’s event. Organizers postponed the race after tests revealed that the Seine’s water quality did not meet the required standards.

Recent heavy rainfall had deteriorated the water quality, leading to the cancellation of swimming training sessions on Sunday and Monday. Despite improvements, tests still showed unacceptable water quality levels in some areas of the swim course. World Triathlon announced that the water remained unsafe for swimming. As a backup plan, the event might proceed as a duathlon if conditions do not improve.

Organizers have also set Friday, 2 August as a contingency date for both the men’s and women’s races. The River Seine will also host other Olympic events, including the mixed relay on 5 August and marathon swimming on 8 and 9 August. Additionally, it will feature the Para-triathlon event at the Paralympics starting on 28 August. Authorities invested approximately €1.4 billion (£1.2 billion) to make the river safe for swimming after a 100-year ban.

However, tests in June showed E. coli levels were ten times higher than acceptable limits. Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo had highlighted the clean-up efforts by swimming in the river herself and earlier tests indicated improvements. Yet, recent heavy rain on Friday and Saturday caused a decline in water quality, leading to the postponement.

Organizers remain hopeful that the men’s race will go ahead on Wednesday, despite forecasts for thundery showers and high temperatures.  Paris 2024 operations director Lambis Konstantinidis explained that higher temperatures could help reduce bacteria levels in the water.

The organizers have implemented contingency plans to manage extreme heat and ensure athletes’ safety.