Olympic Torch Begins 69-Day Relay in France Amid Heightened Security Concerns

The Olympic torch has commenced its 69-day relay across France, marking the beginning of the 33rd Olympiad. The flame, which was lit in Olympia, Greece, on April 15, 2024, will travel through various regions of France before reaching the opening ceremony in Paris on July 26. This year’s relay is occurring under unprecedented security measures due to heightened terrorism concerns.

The relay began in Marseille on May 7 and has already passed through several notable locations, including the Pic du Midi de Bigorre, where it was suspended at an altitude of 2,876 meters, and the Cannes Film Festival, where it made its way up the famous red carpet. The torch will be carried by 11,000 torchbearers, covering thousands of kilometers before reaching its final destination, across France.

On May 23, the torch arrived in Bordeaux, where French authorities arrested a 26-year-old man, Alex G., suspected of planning a violent act during the relay. The arrest followed an investigation triggered by online posts referencing a 2014 mass killing in California. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin praised the police for their professionalism and commitment to ensuring the safety of the Olympic celebrations.

Security measures for the relay are extensive. A high-security zone, described as an 'anti-terrorism perimeter,' has been established along the parade route. This zone will be in place from July 18 and will be extended further on July 26. Anyone entering the zone will need to pre-register online and undergo background security checks.

Why this matters:

The Olympic torch relay's heightened security measures reflect the global concern about terrorism and its impact on large-scale events. The success of these measures will have implications for future international events and the safety of their participants and spectators.

In addition to physical security, experts are warning of increased cyber threats as the Olympics approach. Past events, such as the 2012 London Olympics and the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, have seen significant cyberattacks targeting athletes, attendees, and critical infrastructure. Mark Manglicmot, SVP of security services at Arctic Wolf, advises organizations to adopt a zero-trust security strategy and ensure broad visibility into their environment to mitigate these risks.

Despite these challenges, the torch relay continues to inspire and unite people across France. Notable torchbearers include Édouard Delpero, a world longboard team champion, who carried the flame through a surfboarding guard of honor in Biarritz, and Gérard Bertrand, a renowned biodynamic winemaker, who carried the flame through Narbonne.

As the torch makes its way towards Paris, the world watches in anticipation of the opening ceremony on July 26. The ceremony, set to take place along the River Seine, will feature a parade route with 94 boats carrying athletes, accompanied by 87 other boats for security, media, and other personnel. This unique setting marks a first for the Olympics and adds to the excitement and grandeur of the event, follow the Olympic torch relay.

The 69-day relay not only highlights the importance of security in today's world but also underscores the enduring power of the Olympic Games to bring people together. As the torch continues its journey across France, it serves as a beacon of hope and unity, lighting the way towards a memorable and secure Olympic Games in Paris.

Key Takeaways

• Olympic torch relay begins 69-day journey across France, marking start of 33rd Olympiad.
• Torch will be carried by 11,000 torchbearers, covering thousands of kilometers.
• Heightened security measures in place due to terrorism concerns, including "anti-terrorism perimeter" and background checks.
• Experts warn of increased cyber threats as Olympics approach, advising zero-trust security strategy.
• Torch relay aims to unite people across France, despite security challenges, ahead of July 26 opening ceremony.