It was another successful Olympic year for Kenyan athletes in 2024 after they clinched not less than 11 medals at the Paris Games. As the nation continues to grow in athletics, the foundation of its success was led by Patrick Sang, who won a silver medal in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics in the 3000m steeplechase. The Kenyan great was recently back in the headlines when US sports writer Sarah Gearhart opened up about Sang’s life in her book 'We Share The Sun'.

WION exclusively spoke to Sarah about her experience working with Sang, who mentors some of the game's greats. Currently, Sang is working with Eliud Kipchoge, the 2016 and 2020 Olympic marathon champion who broke the marathon world record in 2018 and 2022.

Question: What inspired you to choose Patrick Sang?

Answer: There are so many coaches that I could have chosen to pursue a story like this, but as I said before, he was just really mysterious to me and I just wanted to know more. I think intuitively, as a writer, you kind of get this sense that there's something more here. I don't quite know what it is, but I know that I need to figure it out and understand

Question: You have been to Kenya watching a different country, how was the experience and how do people pursue sports there?

Answer: It was just drastically different from the way that the Western world lives. I mean you're kind of stripped down from all what we consider the comforts of our lives. And while I was based in Eaton and there were issues, I know the local runners had issues with water and sometimes they didn't have enough to eat and that is the reality and it's hard to see but they find a way to keep going and I found that really inspiring.

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Question: A nation struggling with facilities, how Kenya has been different for international athletes?

Answer: I was surprised by the amount of elite European athletes that came to train. I didn't really encounter many Americans during my four trips to Kenya but I will say that Eaton continues to evolve and develop as a training base for international athletes which I was actually quite surprised by. There's something that athletes really gravitate toward. It's a purity that you can't really replicate anywhere else in the world from what I've experienced. And I think that's what makes it really unique.

Gearhart’s book ‘We Share The Sun’ on the legendary Kenyan&nbsp;will be featured at the Ekamra Sports Literature Festival. The sixth edition is being held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi&nbsp;on Saturday (Nov 23) from 10:00 am&nbsp;local time.

It was another successful Olympic year for Kenyan athletes in 2024 after they clinched not less than 11 medals at the Paris Games. As the nation continues to grow in athletics, the foundation of its success was led by Patrick Sang, who won a silver medal in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics in the 3000m steeplechase.

It was another successful Olympic year for Kenyan athletes in 2024 after they clinched not less than 11 medals at the Paris Games. As the nation continues to grow in athletics, the foundation of its success was led by Patrick Sang, who won a silver medal in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics in the 3000m steeplechase. The Kenyan great was recently back in the headlines when US sports writer Sarah Gearhart opened up about Sang’s life in her book 'We Share The Sun'. WION exclusively spoke to Sarah about her experience working with Sang, who mentors some of the game's greats. Currently, Sang is working with Eliud Kipchoge, the 2016 and 2020 Olympic marathon champion who broke the marathon world record in 2018 and 2022. Question: What inspired you to choose Patrick Sang? Answer: There are so many coaches that I could have chosen to pursue a story like this, but as I said before, he was just really mysterious to me and I just wanted to know more. I think intuitively, as a writer, you kind of get this sense that there's something more here. I don't quite know what it is, but I know that I need to figure it out and understand Question: You have been to Kenya watching a different country, how was the experience and how do people pursue sports there? Answer: It was just drastically different from the way that the Western world lives. I mean you're kind of stripped down from all what we consider the comforts of our lives. And while I was based in Eaton and there were issues, I know the local runners had issues with water and sometimes they didn't have enough to eat and that is the reality and it's hard to see but they find a way to keep going and I found that really inspiring. ALSO READ | Ind vs Aus: Rishabh Pant smacks Pat Cummins for a jaw-dropping SIX on Day 1 of Perth Test - Watch Question: A nation struggling with facilities, how Kenya has been different for international athletes? Answer: I was surprised by the amount of elite European athletes that came to train. I didn't really encounter many Americans during my four trips to Kenya but I will say that Eaton continues to evolve and develop as a training base for international athletes which I was actually quite surprised by. There's something that athletes really gravitate toward. It's a purity that you can't really replicate anywhere else in the world from what I've experienced. And I think that's what makes it really unique. Gearhart’s book ‘We Share The Sun’ on the legendary Kenyan will be featured at the Ekamra Sports Literature Festival. The sixth edition is being held at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi on Saturday (Nov 23) from 10:00 am local time.

Exclusive: Sarah Gearhart opens up on experience working with Kenyan legend Patrick Sang

The French capital is getting ready for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with workers putting on final touches on stadiums and organisers busy making everything perfect. Paris will open&nbsp;the door to thousands of athletes and their millions of fans with opening ceremonies, set for July 26.&nbsp;

The ceremonies at the 2024 Games will be extra special as they were held virtually in Tokyo in the summer of 2021 and in Beijing in the winter of 2022.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-olympics-2024-japan-withdraws-gymnast-shoko-miyata-from-summer-games-for-smoking-743178">Paris Olympics 2024: Japan withdraws gymnast Shoko Miyata from Summer Games for smoking</a>&nbsp;

Not just the ceremonies, the organisers have promised to offer dozens of memorable events, with a few things already grabbing eyeballs, including a purple running track.&nbsp;

Some are wondering why the running track at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris has been painted purple, said to be a bold move. Can you guess?&nbsp;

Earlier this year in April, Alain Blondel, who is the sports manager in charge of athletics for Paris 2024, said as quoted by olympics.com, "The big part of the job was to come up with a track that was different from what we had seen, to maintain the creative approach that the Organising Committee has had since it was set up, to go a little bit outside the box."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-hopes-tight-security-wont-spoil-olympics-2024-opening-ceremony-742945">Paris hopes tight security won’t spoil Olympics 2024 opening ceremony</a>&nbsp;

He then explained, "The look of the Games includes three colours for all the competition venues: blue, green and purple. We decided on this purple track with different tones: lighter for the track, darker for the service areas, and grey for the turns at the end of the bend, reminding of the ash-coloured tracks that were there 100 years ago for the Olympic Games Paris 1924."&nbsp;

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Blondel said that the grey seats for spectators contrast sharply with the colour of the existing lanes. The track draws attention even from the exterior of the stadium. He added that a test revealed that it is good "for the eye and for the picture" from a footbridge overlooking the Stade Annexe, which is a training facility.&nbsp;

"We had to work hard on the colours, so that they came out in the best possible tones to highlight the athletes. It's a track, it has to be pretty, but above all it's a stage on which the athletes are going to perform. What's really important is that the colours and the athletes stand out," said Blondel, who is also a former European decathlon champion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The French capital is getting ready for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with workers putting on final touches on stadiums and organisers busy making everything perfect.

The French capital is getting ready for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with workers putting on final touches on stadiums and organisers busy making everything perfect. Paris will open the door to thousands of athletes and their millions of fans with opening ceremonies, set for July 26. The ceremonies at the 2024 Games will be extra special as they were held virtually in Tokyo in the summer of 2021 and in Beijing in the winter of 2022. Also read: Paris Olympics 2024: Japan withdraws gymnast Shoko Miyata from Summer Games for smoking Not just the ceremonies, the organisers have promised to offer dozens of memorable events, with a few things already grabbing eyeballs, including a purple running track. Some are wondering why the running track at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris has been painted purple, said to be a bold move. Can you guess? Earlier this year in April, Alain Blondel, who is the sports manager in charge of athletics for Paris 2024, said as quoted by olympics.com, "The big part of the job was to come up with a track that was different from what we had seen, to maintain the creative approach that the Organising Committee has had since it was set up, to go a little bit outside the box." Also read: Paris hopes tight security won’t spoil Olympics 2024 opening ceremony He then explained, "The look of the Games includes three colours for all the competition venues: blue, green and purple. We decided on this purple track with different tones: lighter for the track, darker for the service areas, and grey for the turns at the end of the bend, reminding of the ash-coloured tracks that were there 100 years ago for the Olympic Games Paris 1924." 🔜🏃 📹: @Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/rUhlI4luKS — The Olympic Games (@Olympics) July 21, 2024 × Blondel said that the grey seats for spectators contrast sharply with the colour of the existing lanes. The track draws attention even from the exterior of the stadium. He added that a test revealed that it is good "for the eye and for the picture" from a footbridge overlooking the Stade Annexe, which is a training facility. "We had to work hard on the colours, so that they came out in the best possible tones to highlight the athletes. It's a track, it has to be pretty, but above all it's a stage on which the athletes are going to perform. What's really important is that the colours and the athletes stand out," said Blondel, who is also a former European decathlon champion. (With inputs from agencies)

2024 Paris Olympics: Know why running track has been painted purple

French star striker Kylian Mbappe has ruled himself out of the 2024 Paris Olympics following his sensational Real Madrid transfer earlier this summer.

Mbappe, who will appear for France at the ongoing 2024 Euros, admitted since the Summer Games doesn’t fall in the FIFA’s calendar bracket, the clubs are not obliged to release the players. And in this case, his new club has asked him to step out of the race for home Games.

The former Paris Saint-Germain striker had admitted he wanted to be part of this year’s Olympics but dropped this idea since his headline-making move to La Liga in Spain.&nbsp;

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Besides, Mbappe was not named in the 25-man preliminary squad for the 2024 Olympics, though head coach Thierry Henry kept the doors open for him.

Speaking to the media ahead of France’s Euro opener against Austria, Mbappe said his new club had cleared their intentions, resulting in him opting out of it.

"My club's position was very clear, so from that moment on, I think I [knew] I won't be taking part in the Games," Mbappé said.

"That's just the way it is, and I understand that too. I'm joining a new team in September, so it's not the best way to start an adventure.

"I'm going to wish this French team all the best. I'm going to watch every game. I hope they'll win the gold medal,” he continued.

France's preliminary 25-man squad for the Olympic Games:

Goalkeepers: Lucas Chevalier, Obed Nkambadio, Guillaume Restes, Robin Risser

Defenders: Bafodé Diakité, Maxime Estève, Bradley Locko, Castello Lukeba, Kiliann Sildillia, Adrien Truffert, Leny Yoro

Midfielders: Maghnes Akliouche, Joris Chotard, Desiré Doué, Manu Koné, Enzo Millot, Khéphren Thuram, Lesley Ugochukwu, Warren Zaïre-Emery

Attackers: Bradley Barcola, Arnaud Kalimuendo, Alexandre Lacazette, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Michael Olise, Mathys Tel

<h2>France ready for Euro crown</h2>

The 2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up are ready for the 2024 Euros, with the star-studded side labelled hot favourites for the crown.&nbsp;

Here are some important numbers to look at for France at Euros –

<ul>
	<li>Appearances: 10</li>
	<li>Titles: 2</li>
	<li>Best Finish: Winners (1984, 2000)</li>
	<li>Euros record: W21 D12 L10</li>
	<li>Goals scored: 69</li>
	<li>Biggest win: 5-0 (vs. Belgium in Euro 1984)</li>
</ul>

<h3>Here are their fixtures –</h3>

<ul>
	<li>France vs Austria (June 17)</li>
	<li>France vs Netherlands (June 21)</li>
	<li>France vs Poland (June 25)</li>
</ul>

(With inputs from agencies)

French star striker Kylian Mbappe has ruled himself out of the 2024 Paris Olympics following his sensational Real Madrid transfer earlier this summer. Mbappe, who will appear for France at the ongoing 2024 Euros, admitted since the Summer Games doesn’t fall in the FIFA’s calendar bracket, the clubs are not obliged to release the players.

French star striker Kylian Mbappe has ruled himself out of the 2024 Paris Olympics following his sensational Real Madrid transfer earlier this summer. Mbappe, who will appear for France at the ongoing 2024 Euros, admitted since the Summer Games doesn’t fall in the FIFA’s calendar bracket, the clubs are not obliged to release the players. And in this case, his new club has asked him to step out of the race for home Games. The former Paris Saint-Germain striker had admitted he wanted to be part of this year’s Olympics but dropped this idea since his headline-making move to La Liga in Spain. Also Read: Was Ten Hag backstabbed by Man United? Dutchman reveals how club contacted other managers Besides, Mbappe was not named in the 25-man preliminary squad for the 2024 Olympics, though head coach Thierry Henry kept the doors open for him. Speaking to the media ahead of France’s Euro opener against Austria, Mbappe said his new club had cleared their intentions, resulting in him opting out of it. "My club's position was very clear, so from that moment on, I think I [knew] I won't be taking part in the Games," Mbappé said. "That's just the way it is, and I understand that too. I'm joining a new team in September, so it's not the best way to start an adventure. "I'm going to wish this French team all the best. I'm going to watch every game. I hope they'll win the gold medal,” he continued. France's preliminary 25-man squad for the Olympic Games: Goalkeepers: Lucas Chevalier, Obed Nkambadio, Guillaume Restes, Robin Risser Defenders: Bafodé Diakité, Maxime Estève, Bradley Locko, Castello Lukeba, Kiliann Sildillia, Adrien Truffert, Leny Yoro Midfielders: Maghnes Akliouche, Joris Chotard, Desiré Doué, Manu Koné, Enzo Millot, Khéphren Thuram, Lesley Ugochukwu, Warren Zaïre-Emery Attackers: Bradley Barcola, Arnaud Kalimuendo, Alexandre Lacazette, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Michael Olise, Mathys Tel France ready for Euro crown The 2022 FIFA World Cup runners-up are ready for the 2024 Euros, with the star-studded side labelled hot favourites for the crown. Here are some important numbers to look at for France at Euros – Appearances: 10 Titles: 2 Best Finish: Winners (1984, 2000) Euros record: W21 D12 L10 Goals scored: 69 Biggest win: 5-0 (vs. Belgium in Euro 1984) Here are their fixtures – France vs Austria (June 17) France vs Netherlands (June 21) France vs Poland (June 25) (With inputs from agencies)

Star striker Kylian Mbappe unavailable for Paris Olympics after Real Madrid move

World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi, has turned down the chance to return to Paris, France, for the 2024 Olympic Games, starting July 26. Representing Argentina in the Copa America, Messi said playing back-to-back mega tournaments at this age is too much for him. Meanwhile, defending champions Argentina will face Canada in their tournament opener on June 21.

The men’s football competition runs from July 24 to August 9 at the Summer Games. This is primarily an under-23 event, with each team allowed to have three overage players. With Argentina involved, it led to discussions of Messi featuring in his last Olympic Games.&nbsp;

However, in a chat with ESPN Argentina, Messi informed Argentina Under-23 coach Javier Mascherano of his unavailability for this tournament. Having played and won the Olympic gold medal alongside Mascherano before, Messi knows the platform it provides to participating athletes but vows to be careful of his playing schedule at 36.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/everything-is-going-argentina-great-lionel-messi-confirms-he-will-retire-at-inter-miami-731394">'Everything is going...': Argentina great Lionel Messi confirms he will retire at Inter Miami</a>

"I talked to Mascherano, and the truth is we both understood the situation," Messi said.&nbsp;

"It's hard [to think about the Olympics right now] because we're in Copa America. It would be two, three straight months of not being with the club, and more than anything I'm not at an age to be in everything.

"I have to choose carefully, and it would be too much to play two straight tournaments. I've been very lucky to play in the Olympics, of winning it together with Masche (Mascherano). It was a wonderful experience on a football level. Olympics, U20, memories I'll never forget,” the football great continued.

<h2>'Nothing like Olympics'</h2>

Remaining unavailable for selection at this year’s Summer Games for obvious reasons, Messi wished the to-be-selected squad good luck, adding they must enjoy playing at the Olympics as it is special in many ways and different from everything else.&nbsp;

"It's spectacular to be fortunate enough to go through all that. I hope that the guys who get to go enjoy it in the same way that I did because it's special. The Olympics are special, different from anything else,” Messi added.

Meanwhile, the footballing great won the Olympic gold medal in Beijing in 2008, and later completed a full set of international titles with Copa America (in 2022) and FIFA World Cup (2022) wins.&nbsp;

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will return to play for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS), admitting that he vows to retire at this club only.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi, has turned down the chance to return to Paris, France, for the 2024 Olympic Games, starting July 26. Representing Argentina in the Copa America, Messi said playing back-to-back mega tournaments at this age is too much for him.

World Cup winner with Argentina, Lionel Messi, has turned down the chance to return to Paris, France, for the 2024 Olympic Games, starting July 26. Representing Argentina in the Copa America, Messi said playing back-to-back mega tournaments at this age is too much for him. Meanwhile, defending champions Argentina will face Canada in their tournament opener on June 21. The men’s football competition runs from July 24 to August 9 at the Summer Games. This is primarily an under-23 event, with each team allowed to have three overage players. With Argentina involved, it led to discussions of Messi featuring in his last Olympic Games. However, in a chat with ESPN Argentina, Messi informed Argentina Under-23 coach Javier Mascherano of his unavailability for this tournament. Having played and won the Olympic gold medal alongside Mascherano before, Messi knows the platform it provides to participating athletes but vows to be careful of his playing schedule at 36. ALSO READ: 'Everything is going...': Argentina great Lionel Messi confirms he will retire at Inter Miami "I talked to Mascherano, and the truth is we both understood the situation," Messi said. "It's hard [to think about the Olympics right now] because we're in Copa America. It would be two, three straight months of not being with the club, and more than anything I'm not at an age to be in everything. "I have to choose carefully, and it would be too much to play two straight tournaments. I've been very lucky to play in the Olympics, of winning it together with Masche (Mascherano). It was a wonderful experience on a football level. Olympics, U20, memories I'll never forget,” the football great continued. 'Nothing like Olympics' Remaining unavailable for selection at this year’s Summer Games for obvious reasons, Messi wished the to-be-selected squad good luck, adding they must enjoy playing at the Olympics as it is special in many ways and different from everything else. "It's spectacular to be fortunate enough to go through all that. I hope that the guys who get to go enjoy it in the same way that I did because it's special. The Olympics are special, different from anything else,” Messi added. Meanwhile, the footballing great won the Olympic gold medal in Beijing in 2008, and later completed a full set of international titles with Copa America (in 2022) and FIFA World Cup (2022) wins. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will return to play for Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS), admitting that he vows to retire at this club only. (With inputs from agencies)

Argentina great Lionel Messi turns down chance to return to Paris for Olympic Games 2024

The Olympic flame set sail on Saturday on its voyage to France on board the Belem, the Torch Relay reaching its climax at the revolutionary Paris Games opening ceremony along the river Seine on July 26. &nbsp;

"The feelings are so exceptional. It's such an emotion for me", Tony Estanguet, Paris Olympics chief organiser, told reporters before the departure of the ship from Piraeus.

He hailed the "great coincidence" how the Belem was launched just weeks after the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896.

"These games mean a lot. It's been a centenary since the last time we organised the Olympic games in our country," he added. &nbsp;

The 19th-century three-masted boat set sail on a calm sea but under cloudy skies.

It was accompanied off the port of Piraeus by the trireme Olympias of the Greek Navy and 25 sailing boats&nbsp;while dozens of people watched behind railings for security reasons.

"We came here so that the children understand that the Olympic ideal was born in Greece. I'm really moved," Giorgos Kontopoulos, who watched the ship starting its voyage with his two children, told AFP.

On Sunday, the ship will pass from the Corinth Canal -- a feat of 19th century engineering constructed with the contribution of French banks and engineers.&nbsp;

<h2>More responsible Games</h2>

The Belem is set to reach Marseille -- where a Greek colony was founded in around 600 BCE -- on May 8.

Over 1,000 vessels will accompany its approach to the harbour, local officials have said.

French swimmer Florent Manaudou will be the first torch bearer in Marseille. His sister Laure was the second torch bearer in ancient Olympia, where the flame was lit on April 16.

Ten thousand torchbearers will then carry the flame across 64 French territories.

It will travel through more than 450 towns and cities, and dozens of tourist attractions during its 12,000-kilometre (7,500-mile) journey through mainland France and overseas French territories in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Pacific.

It will then reach Paris and be the centre piece of the hugely imaginative and new approach to the Games opening ceremony.&nbsp;

Instead of the traditional approach of parading through the athletics stadium at the start of the Games, teams are set to sail down the Seine on a flotilla of boats in front of up to 500,000 spectators, including people watching from nearby buildings.&nbsp;

The torch harks back to the ancient Olympics when a sacred flame burned throughout the Games. The tradition was revived in 1936 for the Berlin Games.&nbsp;

Greece on Friday had handed over the Olympic flame of the 2024 Games, at a ceremony, to Estanguet.

Hellenic Olympic Committee chairman Spyros Capralos handed the torch to Estanguet&nbsp;at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the Olympics were held in 1896.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-mayank-yadav-resumes-bowling-in-nets-as-he-prepares-for-return-says-lsg-assistant-coach-s-sriram-715619">IPL 2024: Mayank Yadav resumes bowling in nets as he prepares for return, says LSG assistant coach S Sriram</a>

Estanguet said the goal for Paris was to organise "spectacular but also more responsible Games, which will contribute towards a more inclusive society."

Organisers want to ensure "the biggest event in the world plays an accelerating role in addressing the crucial questions of our time," said Estanguet, a member of France's Athens 2004 Olympics team who won gold in the slalom canoe event.

A duo of French champions, Beijing 2022 ice dance gold medallist Gabriella Papadakis and former swimmer Beatrice Hess, one of the most successful Paralympians in history, carried the flame during the final relay leg into the Panathenaic Stadium.

Nana Mouskouri, the 89-year-old Greek singer with a worldwide following, sang the French and Greek anthems at the ceremony.

The Olympic flame set sail on Saturday on its voyage to France on board the Belem, the Torch Relay reaching its climax at the revolutionary Paris Games opening ceremony along the river Seine on July 26.

The Olympic flame set sail on Saturday on its voyage to France on board the Belem, the Torch Relay reaching its climax at the revolutionary Paris Games opening ceremony along the river Seine on July 26. "The feelings are so exceptional. It's such an emotion for me", Tony Estanguet, Paris Olympics chief organiser, told reporters before the departure of the ship from Piraeus. He hailed the "great coincidence" how the Belem was launched just weeks after the first modern Olympic Games were held in Athens in 1896. "These games mean a lot. It's been a centenary since the last time we organised the Olympic games in our country," he added. The 19th-century three-masted boat set sail on a calm sea but under cloudy skies. It was accompanied off the port of Piraeus by the trireme Olympias of the Greek Navy and 25 sailing boats while dozens of people watched behind railings for security reasons. "We came here so that the children understand that the Olympic ideal was born in Greece. I'm really moved," Giorgos Kontopoulos, who watched the ship starting its voyage with his two children, told AFP. On Sunday, the ship will pass from the Corinth Canal -- a feat of 19th century engineering constructed with the contribution of French banks and engineers. More responsible Games The Belem is set to reach Marseille -- where a Greek colony was founded in around 600 BCE -- on May 8. Over 1,000 vessels will accompany its approach to the harbour, local officials have said. French swimmer Florent Manaudou will be the first torch bearer in Marseille. His sister Laure was the second torch bearer in ancient Olympia, where the flame was lit on April 16. Ten thousand torchbearers will then carry the flame across 64 French territories. It will travel through more than 450 towns and cities, and dozens of tourist attractions during its 12,000-kilometre (7,500-mile) journey through mainland France and overseas French territories in the Caribbean, Indian Ocean and Pacific. It will then reach Paris and be the centre piece of the hugely imaginative and new approach to the Games opening ceremony. Instead of the traditional approach of parading through the athletics stadium at the start of the Games, teams are set to sail down the Seine on a flotilla of boats in front of up to 500,000 spectators, including people watching from nearby buildings. The torch harks back to the ancient Olympics when a sacred flame burned throughout the Games. The tradition was revived in 1936 for the Berlin Games. Greece on Friday had handed over the Olympic flame of the 2024 Games, at a ceremony, to Estanguet. Hellenic Olympic Committee chairman Spyros Capralos handed the torch to Estanguet at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the Olympics were held in 1896. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Mayank Yadav resumes bowling in nets as he prepares for return, says LSG assistant coach S Sriram Estanguet said the goal for Paris was to organise "spectacular but also more responsible Games, which will contribute towards a more inclusive society." Organisers want to ensure "the biggest event in the world plays an accelerating role in addressing the crucial questions of our time," said Estanguet, a member of France's Athens 2004 Olympics team who won gold in the slalom canoe event. A duo of French champions, Beijing 2022 ice dance gold medallist Gabriella Papadakis and former swimmer Beatrice Hess, one of the most successful Paralympians in history, carried the flame during the final relay leg into the Panathenaic Stadium. Nana Mouskouri, the 89-year-old Greek singer with a worldwide following, sang the French and Greek anthems at the ceremony.

Tony Estanguet emotional as Olympic torch sets sail for France

IOC president Thomas Bach said artificial intelligence can help identify talented athletes "in every corner of the world" as he unveiled the Olympic AI Agenda in London on Friday.

Bach, speaking at Olympic Park, which hosted the 2012 Games, said the Olympic movement needs to lead change as the global AI revolution gathers pace.

"Today we are making another step to ensure the uniqueness of the Olympic Games and the relevance of sport, and to do this, we have to be leaders of change, and not the object of change," said the International Olympic Committee president.

The former fencing gold medallist said it was vital to have a "holistic" approach to create an "overall strategy for AI and sport".

Bach, speaking less than 100 days before the start of the Paris Olympics, said "unlike other sectors of society, we in sport are not confronted with the existential question of whether AI will replace human beings".

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"In sport, the performances will always have to be delivered by the athletes," he said. "The 100 metres will always have to be run by an athlete -– a human being. Therefore, we can concentrate on the potential of AI to support the athletes.

"AI can help to identify athletes and talent in every corner of the world. AI can provide more athletes with access to personalised training methods, superior sports equipment and more individualised programmes to stay fit and healthy."

Bach said other advantages of AI included fairer judging, better safeguarding and improved spectator experience.

The Olympic AI Agenda comes from the IOC AI working group -– a high-level panel of global experts including AI pioneers and athletes, set up last year.

When asked about the potential negatives of AI, Bach was keen to emphasise the importance of free choice in sport.

"He and she, or the parents, must still have the free choice," said the German. "So a guy who is then maybe identified as a great athlete in wrestling must still have the chance to play tennis and cannot be sorted out from these sports."

<h2>- Vonn 'jealous' -</h2>

Former Olympic skiing champion Lindsey Vonn, who also spoke at the London event, told AFP she envied current athletes, who could use AI to enhance their training.

"I'm very jealous that I didn't have any of this technology when I was racing because I just really feel that it's going to enhance the athlete's experience all around," she said.

"Athletes can utilise AI in training to enhance their knowledge from training like, for example, skiing on the mountain but then also off the mountain in the gym recovery times," added the American.

"The more we understand about your body, about the sport, about performance, the better you can adjust as an athlete.

Vonn, 39, also said AI would be a vital tool for talent identification, particularly in nations without the resources to scout talent.

"You can give them access to AI through a cell phone and you do a series of tests and they can identify 'OK this athlete would be a great, a 40-metre dash sprinter, or this athlete would potentially be an amazing high jumper," she said.

"You have the ability then to find the talent and give them resources through things they already have like a cell phone."

IOC president Thomas Bach said artificial intelligence can help identify talented athletes "in every corner of the world" as he unveiled the Olympic AI Agenda in London on Friday.

IOC president Thomas Bach said artificial intelligence can help identify talented athletes "in every corner of the world" as he unveiled the Olympic AI Agenda in London on Friday. Bach, speaking at Olympic Park, which hosted the 2012 Games, said the Olympic movement needs to lead change as the global AI revolution gathers pace. "Today we are making another step to ensure the uniqueness of the Olympic Games and the relevance of sport, and to do this, we have to be leaders of change, and not the object of change," said the International Olympic Committee president. The former fencing gold medallist said it was vital to have a "holistic" approach to create an "overall strategy for AI and sport". Bach, speaking less than 100 days before the start of the Paris Olympics, said "unlike other sectors of society, we in sport are not confronted with the existential question of whether AI will replace human beings". ALSO READ: FA Cup Semis: Coventry boss Mark Robins plans Manchester United's downfall "In sport, the performances will always have to be delivered by the athletes," he said. "The 100 metres will always have to be run by an athlete -– a human being. Therefore, we can concentrate on the potential of AI to support the athletes. "AI can help to identify athletes and talent in every corner of the world. AI can provide more athletes with access to personalised training methods, superior sports equipment and more individualised programmes to stay fit and healthy." Bach said other advantages of AI included fairer judging, better safeguarding and improved spectator experience. The Olympic AI Agenda comes from the IOC AI working group -– a high-level panel of global experts including AI pioneers and athletes, set up last year. When asked about the potential negatives of AI, Bach was keen to emphasise the importance of free choice in sport. "He and she, or the parents, must still have the free choice," said the German. "So a guy who is then maybe identified as a great athlete in wrestling must still have the chance to play tennis and cannot be sorted out from these sports." - Vonn 'jealous' - Former Olympic skiing champion Lindsey Vonn, who also spoke at the London event, told AFP she envied current athletes, who could use AI to enhance their training. "I'm very jealous that I didn't have any of this technology when I was racing because I just really feel that it's going to enhance the athlete's experience all around," she said. "Athletes can utilise AI in training to enhance their knowledge from training like, for example, skiing on the mountain but then also off the mountain in the gym recovery times," added the American. "The more we understand about your body, about the sport, about performance, the better you can adjust as an athlete. Vonn, 39, also said AI would be a vital tool for talent identification, particularly in nations without the resources to scout talent. "You can give them access to AI through a cell phone and you do a series of tests and they can identify 'OK this athlete would be a great, a 40-metre dash sprinter, or this athlete would potentially be an amazing high jumper," she said. "You have the ability then to find the talent and give them resources through things they already have like a cell phone."

IOC chief Bach backs AI to identify talented athletes ‘in every corner of the world’ as Paris Games looms

Two Indian wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalakal, were stranded at the Dubai airport due to unprecedented rains, which delayed their flights to Kyrgyzstan, where they had to reach in time for their mandatory weigh-ins.

Two Indian wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalakal, were stranded at the Dubai airport due to unprecedented rains, which delayed their flights to Kyrgyzstan, where they had to reach in time for their mandatory weigh-ins. However, due to the delay, they landed late and were denied participation in the Asian Wrestling Qualifiers, hurting their chances of boarding the flight to Paris for the 2024 Summer Games. But despite this, they still have one chance to punch their tickets for the Olympics in June. The weigh-in for Deepak (in the 86 kg category) and Sujeet (in the 65kg category) was supposed to happen at 8 am local time on Thursday, while their bouts were scheduled on Friday evening. While the 17-member wrestling contingent reached Bishkek on time, the duo was left behind as several flights got rescheduled due to the heaviest rains recorded in Dubai over the past two days. Officials of CGI Dubai are in touch with wrestlers, Deepak Punia and Sujeet Kalkal who have been stranded in Dubai due to the disruption of flights. They will be accommodated in a flight from Dubai to Bishkek tonight ahead of the Asian Olympic Qualifying tournament.… pic.twitter.com/UbgB4ntnTM — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) April 18, 2024 × Upon reaching out to the related authorities, a source close to the information said the coaches and WFI president requested the World Wrestling Body to allow them to participate in the competition, but they denied their request. ALSO READ: Dubai rains pour water over two Indian wrestlers' dreams of qualifying for the Paris Olympics Per the source, the concerned officials waited 10 extra minutes at the airport for their weigh-ins, but the wrestlers failed to arrive on time. "Coaches and WFI president Sanjay Singh requested the UWW (world wrestling body), but the wrestlers were late, and the UWW denied them a chance to complete their weigh-in. In fact, after the request from the WFI, the officials at the venue waited 10 more minutes for the two wrestlers to complete their mandatory weigh-in after the deadline. But the two wrestlers were not able to make it on time,” the source said as quoted by India Today. It’s not over yet! Considering this was their second-last chance of qualifying for the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, the duo can still punch their ticket, with their final opportunity coming during the World Qualifiers in Turkey in May. Meanwhile, at the Asian Wrestling Qualifiers, four Indian grapplers will be in action in the men’s freestyle category – Aman (57 kg), Jaideep (74 kg), Deepak (97kg) and Sumit (125kg). India at Asian Wrestling Olympic Qualifiers at Bishkek today: Only one out of 4 Indian wrestlers in action today remains in the hunt for Quota place: Aman Sehrawat (FS 57kg). Other 3 eliminated: Jaideep (FS 74kg) | Deepak (FS 97kg) | Sumit (FS 125kg) Deepak Punia (FS 86kg)… pic.twitter.com/qKAfsH7ezz — India_AllSports (@India_AllSports) April 19, 2024 × While only one Indian wrestler, Antim Panghal (19) has booked her Paris Olympics ticket in the women’s 53kg category, several others, including Vinesh Phogat (50kg), Reetika Hooda (76kg), the current Under-23 world champion Anshu (57kg), Mansi (62kg) and Nisha (68kg), have the chance to seal their spots for Summer Games in their respective categories. As things stand, 36 quotas in 18 weight categories are up for grabs in the continental Olympic Qualifier.

Paris Olympics still in sight for 2 Indian wrestlers despite missing qualifiers due to Dubai rains

With less than four months to go before the start of the Paris Olympics,&nbsp;more controversies have taken centre stage&nbsp;after World Athletics President Sebastian Coe announced last week that gold medallists in Paris will each earn $50,000. The decision&nbsp;has not gone down well with many international associations. It has also been slammed by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) President David Lappartient, who termed the initiative “against the Olympic spirit” ahead of the Games.

<h2>UCI President blasts WA</h2>

"We really believe that this is not the Olympic spirit," UCI President David Lappartient told reporters on the sidelines of the Paris Olympics torch lighting ceremony.

"The proposal (by World Athletics) was not discussed. It was (announced) on the day of our mother organisation's meeting. It should have been on the agenda," he added.

"The Olympic spirit is to share revenues and have more athletes compete worldwide. Not only put all the money on the top athletes but spread the money.

"If we concentrate money on top athletes, a lot of opportunities will disappear for athletes all over the world."

Currently, no association rewards athletes with prize money for winning an Olympic medal. However, last week World Athletics President Coe announced that athletes winning gold medals at the Paris Olympics will be rewarded with $50,000.&nbsp;While there will be no rewards for the silver and bronze medal winners in the Paris Olympics, the future plan includes rewarding them at the Los Angeles Games in 2028.

As things stand, WA will reward a $2.4 million prize pot to the 48 gold medallists in Paris. A total of $540 million was allocated to the 28 sports at the previous Games in Tokyo, with World Athletics receiving the most at $40 million.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-rrs-jos-buttler-earns-special-remark-after-kkr-ton-keeps-this-epic-streak-intact-712098">IPL 2024: RR's Jos Buttler scores impressive ton vs KKR to keep THIS epic streak intact</a>

<h2>Reason for backlash</h2>

The move to reward prize money was met with heavy criticism from other sporting associations due to pay parity which does not exist currently. Five-time Olympic rowing champion Steve Redgrave called it an unfair decision to other sports that cannot afford to do the same. While there is no protest and it is an independent decision from the WA, it is likely to be a hot topic of debate in the build-up to the Olympics.

The move will only spark more controversy in the 2026 Winter Olympics and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics when athletes will be rewarded for winning silver and bronze medals.

(Inputs from Agencies)

With less than four months to go before the start of the Paris Olympics, more controversies have taken centre stage after World Athletics President Sebastian Coe announced last week that gold medallists in Paris will each earn $50,000.

With less than four months to go before the start of the Paris Olympics, more controversies have taken centre stage after World Athletics President Sebastian Coe announced last week that gold medallists in Paris will each earn $50,000. The decision has not gone down well with many international associations. It has also been slammed by Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) President David Lappartient, who termed the initiative “against the Olympic spirit” ahead of the Games. UCI President blasts WA "We really believe that this is not the Olympic spirit," UCI President David Lappartient told reporters on the sidelines of the Paris Olympics torch lighting ceremony. "The proposal (by World Athletics) was not discussed. It was (announced) on the day of our mother organisation's meeting. It should have been on the agenda," he added. "The Olympic spirit is to share revenues and have more athletes compete worldwide. Not only put all the money on the top athletes but spread the money. "If we concentrate money on top athletes, a lot of opportunities will disappear for athletes all over the world." Currently, no association rewards athletes with prize money for winning an Olympic medal. However, last week World Athletics President Coe announced that athletes winning gold medals at the Paris Olympics will be rewarded with $50,000. While there will be no rewards for the silver and bronze medal winners in the Paris Olympics, the future plan includes rewarding them at the Los Angeles Games in 2028. As things stand, WA will reward a $2.4 million prize pot to the 48 gold medallists in Paris. A total of $540 million was allocated to the 28 sports at the previous Games in Tokyo, with World Athletics receiving the most at $40 million. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: RR's Jos Buttler scores impressive ton vs KKR to keep THIS epic streak intact Reason for backlash The move to reward prize money was met with heavy criticism from other sporting associations due to pay parity which does not exist currently. Five-time Olympic rowing champion Steve Redgrave called it an unfair decision to other sports that cannot afford to do the same. While there is no protest and it is an independent decision from the WA, it is likely to be a hot topic of debate in the build-up to the Olympics. The move will only spark more controversy in the 2026 Winter Olympics and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics when athletes will be rewarded for winning silver and bronze medals. (Inputs from Agencies)

Paris Olympics: Cyclists association chief blasts 'against the spirit' prize money policy of world athletics

Anheuser-Busch InBev will be an official sponsor for three Olympic Games starting with the Paris 2024 summer event this year, the brewer said on Friday, naming its alcohol-free Corona Cero as the official beer of the Games.

The maker of Budweiser, Corona and Stella Artois will be a Worldwide Olympic Partner, the highest level of Olympic sponsorship, for this year's Games as well as the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

AB InBev CEO Michel Doukeris said: "We are proud to be the first beer sponsor for the Olympics at the Worldwide Olympic Partner level."

The company declined to disclose the value of the deal.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/u-19-world-cup-south-africa-captain-david-teeger-removed-from-post-over-pro-israel-remarks-679384">U-19 World Cup: South Africa captain David Teeger removed from post over pro-Israel remarks</a>

As drinks companies globally try to adapt to consumers curbing their alcohol consumption, AB InBev said the spotlighting of Corona Cero at the Olympics is part of its efforts towards "responsible alcohol consumption and moderation worldwide".

It's not the first time an alcohol-free beer has sponsored a sporting event: Diageo promoted Guinness 0.0 at last year's Six Nations rugby tournament.

But booze is still central to many events. At the 2022 soccer World Cup in Qatar, some fans were disappointed by a last-minute ban on the sale of alcohol in stadiums, hurting Budweiser.

The beer of the LA Games, Michelob ULTRA, does contain alcohol but is a "light" beer with a 3.5% alcohol content, AB InBev said.

Luxury giant LVMH is also a Paris Olympics sponsor, signing a deal last year expected to cost around 150 million euros that will see Moet Hennessy champagnes and spirits be provided as part of hospitality programmes at the Games.

AB InBev joins global companies including AirBnb, Alibaba, Coca-Cola, P&amp;G, Toyota, and Visa as top Olympic sponsors.

The top-tier Olympic sponsorship programme has jumped in value in recent years, generating $2.3 billion in revenue for the International Olympic Committee over the 2017-2021 period including the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang and delayed Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

Anheuser-Busch InBev will be an official sponsor for three Olympic Games starting with the Paris 2024 summer event this year, the brewer said on Friday, naming its alcohol-free Corona Cero as the official beer of the Games.

Anheuser-Busch InBev will be an official sponsor for three Olympic Games starting with the Paris 2024 summer event this year, the brewer said on Friday, naming its alcohol-free Corona Cero as the official beer of the Games. The maker of Budweiser, Corona and Stella Artois will be a Worldwide Olympic Partner, the highest level of Olympic sponsorship, for this year's Games as well as the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. AB InBev CEO Michel Doukeris said: "We are proud to be the first beer sponsor for the Olympics at the Worldwide Olympic Partner level." The company declined to disclose the value of the deal. ALSO READ: U-19 World Cup: South Africa captain David Teeger removed from post over pro-Israel remarks As drinks companies globally try to adapt to consumers curbing their alcohol consumption, AB InBev said the spotlighting of Corona Cero at the Olympics is part of its efforts towards "responsible alcohol consumption and moderation worldwide". It's not the first time an alcohol-free beer has sponsored a sporting event: Diageo promoted Guinness 0.0 at last year's Six Nations rugby tournament. But booze is still central to many events. At the 2022 soccer World Cup in Qatar, some fans were disappointed by a last-minute ban on the sale of alcohol in stadiums, hurting Budweiser. The beer of the LA Games, Michelob ULTRA, does contain alcohol but is a "light" beer with a 3.5% alcohol content, AB InBev said. Luxury giant LVMH is also a Paris Olympics sponsor, signing a deal last year expected to cost around 150 million euros that will see Moet Hennessy champagnes and spirits be provided as part of hospitality programmes at the Games. AB InBev joins global companies including AirBnb, Alibaba, Coca-Cola, P&G, Toyota, and Visa as top Olympic sponsors. The top-tier Olympic sponsorship programme has jumped in value in recent years, generating $2.3 billion in revenue for the International Olympic Committee over the 2017-2021 period including the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang and delayed Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

Alcohol-free Corona Cero to be official beer for Paris Games as AB InBev signs new Olympics deal

According to a French media report, France’s largest dairy company Lactalis has been <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-pollution-does-not-respect-borders-regional-cooperation-required-experts-317191">polluting</a> the country’s rivers over the past decade including the Loire valley.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bottle-fed-babies-consume-16-million-microplastic-particles-each-day-study-336585">Also Read:&nbsp;Bottle-fed babies consume 1.6 million microplastic particles each day</a>

The Disclose group found that Lactalis had fragrantly breached environmental regulations across the country in its plants spread nationwide including ignoring the local government's safety regulations.

The report said that "Lactalis operates no less than 70 production plants in France, and a total of nearly 270 around the world" with &nbsp;15,000 staff in France, adding,"the family-run group has an annual turnover of close to 20 billion euros and, an exception in the agribusiness, has never been listed on the stock exchange."

The report said the company dumped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/plastic-pollution-flowing-into-oceans-to-triple-by-2040-study-315624">pollutants</a> into rivers with evidence in the form of photos, videos and expert opinion.

The report claimed that Lactalis baby milk powder was discovered to have been contaminated in 2017 with salmonella. However, the CEO Emmanuel Besnier "chose a strategy of silence rather than offer public apologies to the parents of infants made ill from the bacteria", it said.

France has been trying to put its house in order as it hosts the next <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paris-2024-olympics-plans-obsolete-ioc-member-drut-294986">Olympics</a> in 2024 with all venues and hotels under scanner over pollution norms. The Paris Olympics intends to use temporary venues ensuring minimal environmental damage.

The report comes as authorities for the Paris 2024 Olympics hope to organise the first-ever "carbon neutral" Games.

According to a French media report, France’s largest dairy company Lactalis has been polluting the country’s rivers over the past decade including the Loire valley.

According to a French media report, France’s largest dairy company Lactalis has been polluting the country’s rivers over the past decade including the Loire valley. Also Read: Bottle-fed babies consume 1.6 million microplastic particles each day The Disclose group found that Lactalis had fragrantly breached environmental regulations across the country in its plants spread nationwide including ignoring the local government's safety regulations. The report said that "Lactalis operates no less than 70 production plants in France, and a total of nearly 270 around the world" with 15,000 staff in France, adding,"the family-run group has an annual turnover of close to 20 billion euros and, an exception in the agribusiness, has never been listed on the stock exchange." The report said the company dumped pollutants into rivers with evidence in the form of photos, videos and expert opinion. The report claimed that Lactalis baby milk powder was discovered to have been contaminated in 2017 with salmonella. However, the CEO Emmanuel Besnier "chose a strategy of silence rather than offer public apologies to the parents of infants made ill from the bacteria", it said. France has been trying to put its house in order as it hosts the next Olympics in 2024 with all venues and hotels under scanner over pollution norms. The Paris Olympics intends to use temporary venues ensuring minimal environmental damage. The report comes as authorities for the Paris 2024 Olympics hope to organise the first-ever "carbon neutral" Games.

French dairy products company polluting country's rivers, claims study

One day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/massive-fire-at-notre-dame-cathedral-210794">blaze that scarred Notre-Dame,</a> President Emmanuel Macron addressed a nation in shock at the damage to one of its great cultural landmarks, with a promise that rang as clearly as the peal of the cathedral's bells.

"We will rebuild the cathedral even more beautiful and I want it to be finished within five years," Macron said on national television on the evening of April 16, 2019.

"And we can do it," he added.

But six months after the April 15 fire that tore through the roof of the 13th-century Paris cathedral and toppled its spire, the reconstruction process is shaping up to be much more complex than many anticipated.

Workers have had to clean up significant quantities of lead that melted from the roof and contaminated areas around the cathedral, with critics saying the authorities were slow to warn the public of the risks.

There remains no consensus on how the cathedral should look after reconstruction, with many experts wanting the spire to be rebuilt exactly like the original, and Macron arguing for an innovative solution.

Above all, the process of securing an edifice still at risk of collapse after the fire damage has taken precedence over any reconstruction.

It is only at the end of 2020 that a complete check will allow architects to work out how to restore the cathedral. No reconstruction is expected to start before 2021.

It is impossible at this stage to say "how much this is going to cost, how long this is going to last," said Michel Aupetit, the archbishop of Paris.

Macron's five-year goal would see the cathedral's reconstruction completed in the spring of 2024 before Paris hosts the Olympic Games that year.

The top priority is to eliminate any risk to the vaulted ceiling, with the main danger coming from 500 tonnes of scaffolding that was erected around the fire for renovation work before the blaze.

The damage caused by just a single bar of scaffolding falling could prove irreparable, and the work to remove the structure will take several months.

"This is not scare-mongering. It is a physical reality," said Christophe-Charles Rousselot, director-general of the Fondation Notre-Dame, the charity that is overseeing the gathering of donations to the cathedral.

With regards to the spire, a late addition to the medieval cathedral designed by the 19th-century French architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc, many see it as an integral part of the building.

"It needs to be rebuilt as it was before," said Philippe Villeneuve, the architect in charge of restoring the cathedral, arguing that the sheer power of the spire integrated it with the medieval church.

He is backed by Viollet-le-Duc's descendants and, according to opinion polls, the French public.

But the government has left open the possibility of an international competition for architects to design something new.

Experts are also intensively researching the precise original architecture of the cathedral so that when reconstruction begins it is as accurate as possible.

"Before 2010, we only have old-style surveys, plans that have been redrawn on numerous occasions which are very partial and very imprecise," said Remi Fromont, one of the architects responsible for the site who is working on drawing up accurate plans.

Andrew Tallon, a Belgium-born scholar who died aged 49 in November 2018, carried out hugely valuable laser scans of the interior in 2010 that have proved an even more valuable legacy than he could have imagined.

"We know that we will have shortcomings. Not all the chapels were systematically scanned. There are still areas of doubt," Fromont said.

In the aftermath of the fire, private individuals and above all rich French cooperations rushed to pledge hundreds of millions for the rebuilding of the cathedral.

There were concerns about whether this funding would ever be realised.

But France's richest man Bernard Arnault in September signed a formal accord over his pledge of $220 million, as did the Pinault family for their promised 100 million euros.

A signing on another 100 million promised by the oil giant Total is awaited in October.

The consortium of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/billionaires-and-private-donors-mobilise-to-rebuild-notre-dame-210887">fundraising groups behind the drive</a> believes that $890,000&nbsp;can be raised in total, with over 616 million euros now either transferred or pledged.

But lovers of the historic masterpiece, be they tourists, architecture buffs or worshippers, may have to wait some time before Notre-Dame becomes theirs again.

"I have felt orphaned, it is like being in mourning," said Michele Chevalier, 70, a regular at Notre-Dame who was at the service when the first evacuation took place.

"I still manage to pray, but it's not the same."

One day after the blaze that scarred Notre-Dame, President Emmanuel Macron addressed a nation in shock at the damage to one of its great cultural landmarks, with a promise that rang as clearly as the peal of the cathedral's bells.

One day after the blaze that scarred Notre-Dame, President Emmanuel Macron addressed a nation in shock at the damage to one of its great cultural landmarks, with a promise that rang as clearly as the peal of the cathedral's bells. "We will rebuild the cathedral even more beautiful and I want it to be finished within five years," Macron said on national television on the evening of April 16, 2019. "And we can do it," he added. But six months after the April 15 fire that tore through the roof of the 13th-century Paris cathedral and toppled its spire, the reconstruction process is shaping up to be much more complex than many anticipated. Workers have had to clean up significant quantities of lead that melted from the roof and contaminated areas around the cathedral, with critics saying the authorities were slow to warn the public of the risks. There remains no consensus on how the cathedral should look after reconstruction, with many experts wanting the spire to be rebuilt exactly like the original, and Macron arguing for an innovative solution. Above all, the process of securing an edifice still at risk of collapse after the fire damage has taken precedence over any reconstruction. It is only at the end of 2020 that a complete check will allow architects to work out how to restore the cathedral. No reconstruction is expected to start before 2021. It is impossible at this stage to say "how much this is going to cost, how long this is going to last," said Michel Aupetit, the archbishop of Paris. Macron's five-year goal would see the cathedral's reconstruction completed in the spring of 2024 before Paris hosts the Olympic Games that year. The top priority is to eliminate any risk to the vaulted ceiling, with the main danger coming from 500 tonnes of scaffolding that was erected around the fire for renovation work before the blaze. The damage caused by just a single bar of scaffolding falling could prove irreparable, and the work to remove the structure will take several months. "This is not scare-mongering. It is a physical reality," said Christophe-Charles Rousselot, director-general of the Fondation Notre-Dame, the charity that is overseeing the gathering of donations to the cathedral. With regards to the spire, a late addition to the medieval cathedral designed by the 19th-century French architect Eugene Viollet-le-Duc, many see it as an integral part of the building. "It needs to be rebuilt as it was before," said Philippe Villeneuve, the architect in charge of restoring the cathedral, arguing that the sheer power of the spire integrated it with the medieval church. He is backed by Viollet-le-Duc's descendants and, according to opinion polls, the French public. But the government has left open the possibility of an international competition for architects to design something new. Experts are also intensively researching the precise original architecture of the cathedral so that when reconstruction begins it is as accurate as possible. "Before 2010, we only have old-style surveys, plans that have been redrawn on numerous occasions which are very partial and very imprecise," said Remi Fromont, one of the architects responsible for the site who is working on drawing up accurate plans. Andrew Tallon, a Belgium-born scholar who died aged 49 in November 2018, carried out hugely valuable laser scans of the interior in 2010 that have proved an even more valuable legacy than he could have imagined. "We know that we will have shortcomings. Not all the chapels were systematically scanned. There are still areas of doubt," Fromont said. In the aftermath of the fire, private individuals and above all rich French cooperations rushed to pledge hundreds of millions for the rebuilding of the cathedral. There were concerns about whether this funding would ever be realised. But France's richest man Bernard Arnault in September signed a formal accord over his pledge of $220 million, as did the Pinault family for their promised 100 million euros. A signing on another 100 million promised by the oil giant Total is awaited in October. The consortium of fundraising groups behind the drive believes that $890,000 can be raised in total, with over 616 million euros now either transferred or pledged. But lovers of the historic masterpiece, be they tourists, architecture buffs or worshippers, may have to wait some time before Notre-Dame becomes theirs again. "I have felt orphaned, it is like being in mourning," said Michele Chevalier, 70, a regular at Notre-Dame who was at the service when the first evacuation took place. "I still manage to pray, but it's not the same."

Six months on, Notre-Dame's rebirth still years away

The Italian Olympic Committee on Tuesday put a definitive end to Rome&#39;s bid to host the 2024 Olympic Games, officially withdrawing its candidature, after the city council voted to oppose the project. &nbsp;

Committee President Giovanni Malago told a specially convened press conference, &quot;today I wrote a letter to the International Olympic Committee in which we have broken off our candidature for the Olympic Games in 2024.&quot;

City&#39;s newly elected mayor Virginia Raggi, backed by nearly two-thirds of councillors, argued that staging the sporting extravaganza would &quot;bury the already cash-strapped Italian capital under piles of debt&quot;.&nbsp;

Raggi&#39;s anti-establishment movement had repeatedly flagged its opposition to hosting the Games, saying the chaotic city had more pressing problems like the creaking transport system and other public services.&nbsp;

Malago&#39;s announcement made its clear there was no way forward and he said a fresh attempt to get the Games was unlikely for at least 20 years.&nbsp;Malago said the decision to withdraw the bid was a &#39;very grave renunciation and a great disappointment.&quot;

&quot;I always said this bid was a table supported by three legs and one of those legs gave way for for ideological and&nbsp;demagogic reasons,&quot; he said.

Rome&#39;s withdrawal leaves Budapest, Los Angeles and Paris battling for the right to host the 2024 summer games.

(WION with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Even before being elected, Rome's new mayor declared she would prioritise re-energising city's public services over staging the Olympics

The Italian Olympic Committee on Tuesday put a definitive end to Rome's bid to host the 2024 Olympic Games, officially withdrawing its candidature, after the city council voted to oppose the project. Committee President Giovanni Malago told a specially convened press conference, "today I wrote a letter to the International Olympic Committee in which we have broken off our candidature for the Olympic Games in 2024." City's newly elected mayor Virginia Raggi, backed by nearly two-thirds of councillors, argued that staging the sporting extravaganza would "bury the already cash-strapped Italian capital under piles of debt". Raggi's anti-establishment movement had repeatedly flagged its opposition to hosting the Games, saying the chaotic city had more pressing problems like the creaking transport system and other public services. Malago's announcement made its clear there was no way forward and he said a fresh attempt to get the Games was unlikely for at least 20 years. Malago said the decision to withdraw the bid was a 'very grave renunciation and a great disappointment." "I always said this bid was a table supported by three legs and one of those legs gave way for for ideological and demagogic reasons," he said. Rome's withdrawal leaves Budapest, Los Angeles and Paris battling for the right to host the 2024 summer games. (WION with inputs from agencies)

City council forces Italy to withdraw bid to host 2024 Olympic Games