As the City of Light prepares to host the XXXIII Olympiad, Paris 2024 promises to deliver an unforgettable Olympic experience by utilizing some of France’s most iconic and historic venues. This year’s Games will not only highlight extraordinary athletic feats but also celebrate the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Paris and beyond. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the serene shores of Tahiti, the selection of venues for the 2024 Olympics reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.
1. Stade de France
- Events: Athletics, Rugby Sevens
- Capacity: 77,083
- Location: Saint-Denis, just north of Paris
Stade de France stands as a beacon of French sporting excellence. Opened in 1998, it was initially built to host the FIFA World Cup and has since become a central hub for major sporting events. The stadium witnessed France’s triumphant victory in the 1998 World Cup final against Brazil, a moment etched in football history. For Paris 2024, Stade de France will showcase athletics and rugby sevens. Its state-of-the-art facilities and substantial capacity make it an ideal venue for these high-profile events, continuing its legacy of hosting world-class sports.
2. Roland-Garros Stadium
- Events: Tennis, Boxing
- Capacity: 34,000
- Location: Paris
Roland-Garros, home to the French Open, is a cornerstone of the tennis world. Since 1925, it has been the stage for some of the most memorable moments in tennis, including Rafael Nadal’s remarkable performances. In addition to its famous clay courts, the stadium will host boxing events during the Olympics. The choice of Roland-Garros for these sports highlights its esteemed reputation and its role in the broader landscape of global athletics.
3. Parc des Princes
- Events: Football
- Capacity: 47,926
- Location: Paris
Parc des Princes, designed by architect Roger Taillibert, has been a prominent football venue since its completion in 1972. It is the home ground of Paris Saint-Germain and has hosted numerous international and domestic football matches. For Paris 2024, it will be a key location for football competitions, adding to its storied history with new Olympic chapters.
4. Place de la Concorde
- Events: BMX Freestyle, Skateboarding, Breaking, 3×3 Basketball
- Capacity: 30,000
- Location: Paris
Place de la Concorde, one of the largest and most historic squares in Paris, will transform into a vibrant hub for urban sports. The square’s rich history, including its role in major French historical events and international exhibitions, makes it a fitting location for BMX freestyle, skateboarding, breaking, and 3×3 basketball. The backdrop of this iconic public space will provide a dynamic setting for these modern Olympic disciplines.
5. Stade Vélodrome
- Events: Football
- Capacity: 67,394
- Location: Marseille
Stade Vélodrome, an emblematic stadium in Marseille, has been a focal point for football and rugby in France. Since its opening in 1937, it has hosted numerous significant events, including World Cup and Euro Championship matches. For Paris 2024, it will be one of the venues for the football tournament, continuing its tradition of staging major sporting events in an electrifying atmosphere.
6. Grand Palais
- Events: Fencing, Taekwondo
- Capacity: 8,000
- Location: Paris
The Grand Palais, built for the 1900 Universal Exposition, is renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance. Its glass roof and ornate design make it a unique venue for fencing and taekwondo during the Olympics. This historic building, which has also hosted art exhibitions and cultural events, will add an element of grandeur to these martial arts competitions.
7. Champ de Mars Arena & Eiffel Tower Stadium
- Events: Beach Volleyball, Judo, Wrestling
- Capacity: 8,356 / 12,860
- Location: Paris
The Champ de Mars, nestled between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire, will host several Olympic events. The temporary Champ de Mars Arena will provide a picturesque setting for judo and wrestling, while beach volleyball will be played with the Eiffel Tower as a stunning backdrop. This combination of iconic landmarks and sporting events promises an unparalleled Olympic experience.
8. Esplanade des Invalides
- Events: Archery
- Capacity: 8,000
- Location: Paris
Esplanade des Invalides, adjacent to the Hôtel des Invalides, is steeped in historical significance. This expansive lawn area, which houses Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb, will host the archery events and serve as the marathon’s finish line. The blend of historical gravitas and Olympic competition will create a memorable backdrop for these events.
9. Château de Versailles
- Events: Equestrian, Modern Pentathlon
- Capacity: 15,000 – 40,000 (depending on event)
- Location: Versailles
The Château de Versailles, a symbol of royal opulence and French heritage, will feature prominently in the Olympics. A temporary outdoor arena will be constructed in the palace’s gardens to host equestrian events and parts of the modern pentathlon. This majestic venue will bring a touch of regal splendor to the Olympic Games.
10. Teahupo’o
- Events: Surfing
- Capacity: 600
- Location: Teahupo’o, Tahiti
Teahupo’o, known for its world-class surf breaks, will host the surfing events of Paris 2024. Located on the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia, this venue represents the Games’ commitment to including French overseas territories. The pristine waves and natural beauty of Teahupo’o will provide an extraordinary setting for the surfing competition.
11. Yves-du-Manoir Stadium
- Events: Hockey
- Capacity: 15,000
- Location: Colombes
Yves-du-Manoir Stadium, originally opened in 1907, returns to the Olympic spotlight for Paris 2024. It was previously used during the 1924 Paris Games and is remembered for hosting various events, including the final of the 1938 FIFA World Cup. The stadium will once again welcome the hockey events, continuing its legacy of Olympic history.
Paris 2024 promises to be a celebration of both athletic achievement and cultural heritage. The choice of venues, each with its own unique story and significance, will contribute to an Olympic Games that is both historically resonant and forward-looking. Whether you are drawn to the grandeur of historic landmarks or the thrill of world-class sports, Paris 2024 offers a rich tapestry of experiences that are set to make this Olympiad one of the most memorable in history. Secure your tickets for the Games’ second phase starting March 15 and be part of this extraordinary event!
People Also Ask
Where are the venues for the 2024 Paris Olympics?
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will be held across several iconic venues in Paris and its surrounding areas, as well as in French overseas territories. Notable venues include:
- Stade de France in Saint-Denis for athletics and rugby sevens.
- Roland-Garros Stadium in Paris for tennis and boxing.
- Parc des Princes in Paris for football.
- Place de la Concorde in Paris for urban sports like BMX freestyle, skateboarding, breaking, and 3×3 basketball.
- Stade Vélodrome in Marseille for football.
- Grand Palais in Paris for fencing and taekwondo.
- Champ de Mars Arena and Eiffel Tower Stadium in Paris for beach volleyball, judo, and wrestling.
- Esplanade des Invalides in Paris for archery.
- Château de Versailles in Versailles for equestrian events and modern pentathlon.
- Teahupo’o in Tahiti for surfing.
- Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in Colombes for hockey.
These venues reflect a blend of Parisian landmarks, historic sites, and beautiful natural settings, providing a unique backdrop for the Olympic events.
What is special about Paris 2024?
Paris 2024 is distinguished by several unique aspects:
- Historical Significance: The Games mark the third time Paris has hosted the Olympics, following the 1900 and 1924 Games. This historical return underscores Paris’s rich Olympic legacy.
- Iconic Venues: The use of famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Champ de Mars for Olympic events provides a dramatic and picturesque setting.
- Sustainability: Paris 2024 has committed to sustainability with initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the Games, including using existing venues and promoting green practices.
- Inclusivity: The Games will feature new and urban sports such as breaking (breakdancing), skateboarding, and surfing, reflecting contemporary sports trends and attracting younger audiences.
- Engagement with Overseas Territories: The inclusion of Teahupo’o in Tahiti for surfing highlights the Games’ connection with French overseas territories and showcases global sporting talent.
What is the main stadium in Paris in 2024?
The main stadium for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is Stade de France, located in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. It will host major events such as athletics and rugby sevens. Known for its significant role in French sports history, including hosting the 1998 FIFA World Cup final, Stade de France is a central venue for the Games.
What is the new Olympic sport in Paris 2024?
Paris 2024 will introduce several new sports to the Olympic program:
- Breaking (Breakdancing): This urban dance form will make its debut, reflecting the Games’ focus on contemporary and popular culture.
- Skateboarding: After its introduction at Tokyo 2020, skateboarding will return to the Paris Games, continuing to capture the interest of younger audiences.
- Surfing: While surfing was introduced in Tokyo 2020, it will be featured prominently in Paris 2024 with competitions held in Teahupo’o, Tahiti. These additions aim to diversify the Olympic sports roster and appeal to a broader, more global audience.
What is the full meaning of Olympic?
The term “Olympic” pertains to the ancient Olympic Games held in Olympia, Greece, and derived from Mount Olympus, the home of the gods in Greek mythology. In a broader context, “Olympic” refers to anything related to the Olympic Games, an international multi-sport event that embodies the ideals of athletic excellence, peace, and unity. The full meaning can be interpreted as follows:
- Olympic (Adjective): Pertaining to the Olympics or the Olympic Games, which are held every four years and bring together athletes from around the world to compete in various sports.
- Olympic (Noun): Referring to the Olympic Games themselves, which are organized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and include both Summer and Winter editions.
