Olympic triathlon postponed: Seine water still unsafe for swimming

French govt has invested 1.4 billion euros to improve the Seine's water quality for future swimming

The men's triathlon event at the Paris Olympic Games, initially scheduled for Tuesday, has been postponed to Wednesday at 10:45 a.m. following the women's race due to the River Seine's water quality issues.

Heavy rainfall on Friday and Saturday exacerbated the water quality, making it unsuitable for swimming, as confirmed by the International Federation.

The water quality of the Seine has been a significant concern for the organisers for months, alongside safety issues. The most recent water quality analyses were expected to be available by 4:00am today, as stated by Amelie Oudea-Castera, the French Minister of Sports. She had expressed optimism about the possibility of a delay, citing favourable weather and a flexible schedule.

The French government has invested 1.4 billion euros (over 1.5 billion dollars) in recent years to improve the river's water quality. This investment aims not only to prepare the river for the triathlon and open water events during the Olympics but also to enable Parisians to swim in the Seine in the future.

Triathletes' training in the Seine was cancelled a few days ago due to the poor water quality. After the triathlon, the Seine will host the open water swimming events on August 8 and 9, with Spain also participating.

The delay of the men's triathlon underscores ongoing challenges despite substantial investments and efforts to enhance the river's condition for the Olympic Games.