Rio Sena

Paris, July 29 (PL) - The Olympic triathletes of Paris-2024 could not practice today morning in the waters of the Seine, polluted to levels higher than permitted after heavy rains on Friday and Saturday in the French capital.

The Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games (OCOG), the International Triathlon Union and the Parisian authorities (Mayor's Office and Prefecture) decided to suspend for the second consecutive day the familiarization with the Seine, scene tomorrow of the men's competitions and Wednesday of the women's, if the schedule is maintained.

The quality of the water does not present sufficient guarantees, they indicated in a communiqué, increasing the concern for the development of the competition, which will also include the mixed relays on August 5.

However, the parties reaffirmed their confidence in the realization of the trials, although it was reported by Olympic sources that in the coming hours they will define whether or not to maintain the calendar.

The quality of the waters of the Seine has been a major concern with a view to Paris-2024, after abundant rainfall in June and July triggered contamination by dangerous Escherichia coli bacteria and Enterococcus, present at levels above those acceptable for bathing.

Before the start of the Olympic Games, OCOG president Tony Estanguet evoked a plan B in case it is necessary to change the triathlon's competitive scenario.

In this regard, he mentioned the waters of Vaires-sur-Marne, venue of the rowing and canoeing disciplines.