Belgium Withdraws from Paris 2024 Mixed Relay as Illness Strikes Athlete Following Seine Swim, Sparking €1.4 Billion Cleanup Concerns

Tejal Somvanshi Tejal Somvanshi

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Speculation is rife on social media about whether Escherichia coli bacteria is behind the illness that sidelined Belgian triathlete Claire Michel.

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Despite concerns about Seine water quality, the mixed triathlon is set to proceed on Monday as recent tests show improved conditions.

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The men's triathlon event was delayed due to bacteria levels exceeding acceptable limits, but later tests showed significantly reduced E. coli levels.

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The Paris 2024 organizers faced a setback last August when triathlon test events were canceled due to water quality issues in the Seine.

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Just days before the Games, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and Tony Estanguet swam in the Seine to demonstrate its safety.

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French President Emmanuel Macron praised the restoration of the Seine, highlighting the river's readiness for Olympic events.

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The Seine will continue to be under scrutiny as open water swimming events are scheduled for August 8 and 9 at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

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