However, the Surfrider Foundation, a non-governmental organisation that focuses on protecting the world’s waters, voiced doubts that the Seine will be ready and warned that competitors who swim in the river face significant health risks.
“We hope that the works being carried out will help improve the quality of the water and permit the events to take place. But currently, bearing in mind the thresholds that we are seeing in these samples, it would appear pretty complicated,” said the foundation’s head of sports Lucie Segalas.
After criticisms that event prices were too high, one million free tickets were handed out to young people, amateur athletes, and those with disabilities.
One hundred years ago in Paris, gold medals were awarded in sculpture, painting and music.
While art competitions are no longer part of the Olympic programme, France is hoping to craft a unique opening spectacle and host a successful Games to build a sporting legacy.
The Summer Olympics will be held from Jul 26 to Aug 11, while the Paralympics will be held from Aug 28 to Sep 8.
