Saudia Airlines, the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is set to play a major role in transporting global travelers to the upcoming Paris Olympics. The airline, which has seen a significant surge in passenger traffic following the COVID-19 pandemic, is increasing its flight frequency to Paris to accommodate the expected influx of visitors for the Games. This strategic move positions Saudia as a key player in connecting travelers to the heart of the Olympic action.
Indian athletes Avinash Sable and Kishore Jena will compete in the Paris Diamond League on Sunday, seeking to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming Paris Olympics. Reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra, however, will not be participating in the event.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA), in collaboration with the Union Sports Ministry and the Sports Authority of India (SAI), has implemented a comprehensive medical support system for Indian athletes competing at the upcoming Paris Olympics. This includes a 13-member medical team, sleep therapist, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and psychologists, ensuring athletes receive the best care.
The organizing committee for the Paris Olympics has announced backup plans for open-water events in case the Seine River is deemed unsuitable for swimming due to high E. coli levels. These plans include postponing the events, changing the triathlon to a duathlon, and relocating the marathon swimming competition to a nearby stadium.
The Paris 2024 Olympics, aiming to be the greenest Games ever, are facing a sustainability crisis as organizers install thousands of air conditioning units to appease athletes concerned about extreme heat. Despite efforts to reduce emissions and promote sustainable practices, the organizers are facing pressure from athletes who fear the potential health risks of high temperatures. This decision has sparked debate about the balance between athlete well-being and environmental goals.
Naomi Osaka’s Wimbledon campaign ended prematurely in the second round, but the Japanese star has already shifted her sights to the Paris Olympics, where she hopes to improve on her third-round finish in Tokyo. Osaka acknowledged her lack of confidence during her loss to Emma Navarro, but expressed optimism about her chances on clay, especially after her close encounter with Iga Swiatek at the French Open.
Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat received her Schengen visa just in time to compete at the Grand Prix of Spain 2024 in Madrid. She had sought help from the Sports Minister and the Ministry of External Affairs after facing delays in receiving her visa. Phogat expressed gratitude for the swift assistance and will now travel to Spain for the competition before heading to France for a 20-day training stint in preparation for the Paris Olympics.
Ashok Travels & Tours (ATT), the travel division of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), has been selected as the official travel partner for Team India at the 2024 Paris Olympics. ATT will manage all travel logistics for the athletes, coaches, and the entire contingent, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. This partnership reflects ATT’s commitment to supporting Indian sports and their expertise in travel management.
The Paris Olympic village, designed without air conditioning to reduce carbon emissions, will be equipped with 2,500 temporary cooling units to address athletes’ concerns about summer heat. While the village features a geothermal cooling system, the lack of permanent air conditioning raised worries about athlete comfort, particularly from the influential US Olympic team. Organizers responded by allowing teams to order portable units at their own expense, emphasizing a compromise between environmental goals and athlete well-being.
Wrestler Bajrang Punia has accused the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) of targeting him and trying to end his career. He claims NADA is attempting to silence him for questioning their procedures and alleges they have refused to take responsibility for providing him with an expired sample collection kit. Punia has vowed to fight the suspension and challenge NADA’s actions.
