The 2024 Paris Olympics officially begins today, welcoming world leaders to the French capital. The opening ceremony, featuring a spectacular display of athletes and dignitaries being ferried down a section of the River Seine, is expected to draw 300,000 spectators. However, the festivities have been overshadowed by significant disruptions on the French rail network.

Early this morning, Eurostar announced that its services between London and Paris have been severely affected by “acts of malice” on France’s high-speed rail routes. Vandals have reportedly targeted the Olympic event with coordinated arson attacks, particularly impacting the line between Paris and Lille. These acts have forced all high-speed trains to be diverted via the classic line, extending journey times by approximately an hour and a half and resulting in several cancellations.

In a statement, Eurostar expressed its regret: “Due to coordinated acts of malice in France, affecting the high-speed line between Paris and Lille, all high-speed trains going to and coming from Paris are being diverted via the classic line today. This extends the journey time by around an hour and a half. Several trains have been cancelled.”

The security operation for the Olympics is vast and multi-faceted, involving 45,000 police officers, 18,000 military personnel, and around 20,000 individuals from private security firms. Additionally, nearly 2,000 officers from 44 foreign police forces are deployed in Paris, including 250 officers from the UK, who have provided expertise based on their experience hosting the 2012 Games.

The greatest concern among security officials remains the threat of a terrorist attack targeting athletes or spectators. The French authorities are on high alert, striving to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees during the event.

Stay tuned for more updates on the security situation and other developments as the 2024 Paris Olympics unfold.

What you need to know:

• Vandals target Paris Olympics with arson attacks on high-speed rail routes.
• The opening ceremony will feature athletes and dignitaries on boats along the River Seine.
• The Olympics security detail includes 45,000 police officers, 18,000 military personnel, and 20,000 private security staff.
• A significant international police presence is also in place to prevent any potential terrorist threats.