French President Emmanuel Macron has indicated potential changes to the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games due to security concerns. Initially set for a spectacular display along the River Seine on 26 July, the ceremony might now be relocated to safer venues like the Trocadéro or the Stade de France. This adjustment comes amid fears of terrorist threats and possible drone attacks, with recent threats from the Islamic State group explicitly targeting sporting events in prominent cities, including Paris.

To mitigate the risks, the French government plans a significant security presence, deploying around 20,000 soldiers and over 40,000 police officers. The number of spectators for the opening ceremony has also been reduced to 300,000, and attendance will be by invitation only. In addition, about one million individuals involved in the Games are to be screened as part of enhanced security measures.

In addition to safety logistics, Macron is promoting an Olympic truce, reaching out to global leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping to support peace initiatives during the Games period, set from 26 July to 11 August, followed by the Paralympic Games from 28 August to 8 September. Notably, athletes from Russia and Belarus will participate only as neutrals due to geopolitical tensions, while Israel will compete despite external pressures for exclusion.

Amidst these preparations, there is a mixed reception among Paris residents, with 44% viewing the Olympic hosting negatively, citing disruptions and potential increases in living costs. As Paris gears up for a significant international influx, these Games are poised to test the city’s capacity to balance celebratory events with stringent security measures.