Emmanuel Macron, in an interview with Le Parisien on September 13th, announced his desire to establish a national sports day on September 14th every year, similar to the Fête de la musique, on the eve of the athletes’ parade organized in Paris following the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He emphasized the importance of coming together for a popular celebration of sports, taking place in the streets, schools, and sports facilities across cities, villages, and neighborhoods. This annual event would involve demonstrations, competitions, and activities for people of all ages, aiming to reinvigorate daily participation in sports.
Furthermore, Macron expressed support for Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who faced criticism for deciding to keep the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower until 2028. He commended her for this decision and also advocated for maintaining the Olympic cauldron at the Tuileries. Macron mentioned ongoing discussions with Hidalgo to explore various technical aspects to prolong the display of these symbols beyond the Games. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to preserving the legacy of the Olympics in Paris.
In addition to these initiatives, Macron revealed plans to establish a specific honorary order for individuals involved in the 2024 Olympics, in addition to the awards of the Legion of Honor and National Order of Merit that will be presented to medal-winning athletes. This new order will recognize the contributions of a diverse range of individuals, from volunteers to public servants and performers like Céline Dion, who participated in the opening ceremony. The promotion of the 2024 Olympics, to be published at the end of the year, aims to celebrate the collective efforts that made the Games a success.
As the French Parliament faces fragmentation and diverse political representation, Macron called for a bipartisan parliamentary commission to evaluate the legacy of the 2024 Olympics. The commission will assess the successful aspects of the Games and draw inspiration for future projects, including the redevelopment of the Olympic Village in Seine-Saint-Denis. By examining the outcomes of the event, the government aims to identify key lessons and opportunities for sustainable development in sports infrastructure and other related areas. This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of leveraging the Olympic legacy for long-term benefits.
Overall, Macron’s vision for a national sports day, support for the preservation of Olympic symbols in Paris, and recognition of individuals involved in the 2024 Games reflect a commitment to celebrating sports and fostering a sense of pride and unity. The proposed initiatives aim to encourage active participation in sports, honor the contributions of diverse individuals, and evaluate the impact of the Olympics on French society. By promoting inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainable development, Macron seeks to create a lasting legacy that extends beyond the 2024 Olympics and inspires future generations to engage in sports and community activities.
