Paris mayor swims in the Seine to show the long-polluted river is clean enough for the Olympics
Under blue skies and bright sunshine, curious Parisians and gathered along the right bank of the Seine River to see the French capital's mayor plunge into the River Seine.
PARIS — Under blue skies and bright sunshine, curious Parisians gathered along the right bank of the Seine to see the French capital's mayor plunge into the water.
After months of anticipation, a smiling Anne Hidalgo fulfilled a promise to show it was clean enough to host open swimming competitions during the 2024 Olympics — and the opening ceremony on the river nine days away.
Clad in a wetsuit and goggles, she plunged into the river near Paris' imposing City Hall, her office, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
She was followed into the water by Paris 2024 Olympic President and former canoeist Tony Estanguet, as well as Marc Guillaume, the top government official for the Paris region. Guillaume is responsible for the safety and traffic on the famous Parisienne waterway, which will be at the center of the opening ceremony.
Members of the City Council also made the long awaited dip along with swimmers from local swimming clubs.
Rating: 5