In Paris, men’s triathlon postponed over Seine water quality – National

Paris Olympics organizers postponed the men’s triathlon due to concerns about water quality in the Seine River. Officials are hopeful that the swimming portion of the race can proceed in the coming days after an extensive cleanup effort.

The men’s triathlon is now scheduled for Wednesday, with the women’s competition also planned for that day. However, both events will only take place if water tests show acceptable levels of E. coli and other bacteria in the river. Friday has been set as a backup date.

Weather forecasts predict storms and rain from Tuesday night through Thursday, which may complicate rescheduling efforts as rain tends to increase bacteria levels in the Seine.

Paris invested 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) to improve water quality in the Seine for the triathlon events. Despite recent confidence that bacteria levels would improve with clearer skies and warmer temperatures, the postponement was deemed necessary for the safety of the athletes.

The decision to postpone the men’s triathlon was made after a meeting involving World Triathlon, medical teams, the IOC, and city officials. Water quality readings on the swim course still exceeded acceptable limits, emphasizing the priority of athlete health.

Efforts to make the river suitable for swimming included the construction of a basin to capture rainwater, upgrades to sewer infrastructure, and improvements to wastewater treatment plants.

The men’s triathlon is rescheduled for Wednesday morning, with the women’s race proceeding as planned. Other swimming events in the Seine, including the triathlon mixed relay and marathon swimming events, are scheduled for early August.

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