Paris triathlon could be set for momentous change

The foundation said measurements between September 2023 and March 2024 had found high levels of two bacteria, E. coli and enterococci.

“In sport, there’s a risk … there’s always a risk,” Estanguet said.

Australia won’t officially name its triathlon team until June, but athletes are preparing as normal and have been given strong commitments from local organisers there is nothing to worry about.

“We have full confidence that World Triathlon and the Organising Committee have our athletes’ health and safety [in mind] in every decision made,” AusTriathlon chief executive Tim Harradine said. “They’ve taken extensive steps to ensure the safety of the swim leg in Paris and all triathlons follow strict water quality protocols, which include regular monitoring and testing of water quality leading into events.”

Triathlon made its debut at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, athletes competing over a 1500m swim, 40km bike ride and 10km run.

It would be a unique set of circumstances if the swimming leg was cancelled, but Harradine said that had not been communicated.

“We have not received any indication that the triathlon swim leg for the Olympics or Paralympics will be affected,” he said.

“Our athletes are accustomed to adapting to the dynamic nature of race conditions in triathlon, where each event presents its own unique challenges. They remain focused on their upcoming events, including next week’s World Triathlon Cup in Wollongong, and their rigorous preparation for the Paris 2024 Games.”

Paris officials believe water pollution will be significantly improved by a new stormwater facility that is set to be installed in coming weeks.

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The men’s and women’s triathlons are scheduled for July 30 and 31, respectively, while the mixed relay is in week two of the Games on August 5.

Open water events will take place on August 8 and 9. Australian open water swimmer Nick Sloman said last month he had faith the water would be safe to swim in.

“I did speak to a French official at the [recent] World Cup,” Sloman said. “He said he’s doing everything he can to make sure that the water quality is as pristine as possible.”

French prime minister Emmanuel Macron was recently asked by local reporters if he would swim in the Seine, which has been forbidden since 1923.

“I will do it, but I won’t give you the date, or you risk being there,” Macron said with a grin.

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