French canoeing legend Tony Estanguet has publicly condemned Imane Khelif’s recent remarks criticizing the Olympic officials ahead of the Paris 2024 Summer Games, accusing her of showing “disdain” for the Olympic movement. Khelif, a rising star in French athletics, had previously voiced her concerns about the way the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and local organizers have handled various issues related to the Games, particularly around the treatment of athletes and the logistical challenges they face.
Estanguet, a three-time Olympic champion and the president of the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, did not mince words when responding to Khelif’s criticism. He expressed his disappointment with the athlete’s comments, pointing out that they appeared to undermine the incredible effort and dedication required to bring the Games to Paris. Estanguet emphasized that organizing the Olympics is a complex, massive undertaking and that athletes should show respect for the enormous work being done by those involved, even when they face challenges.
“I understand that athletes have concerns, but there is a way to express those concerns,” Estanguet said in a statement. “What we cannot accept is disdain for the Games, which represents the pinnacle of global sports and a unifying force for millions around the world. Disrespecting the Games undermines not just the work of organizers but the spirit of the Olympic movement.”
Khelif had previously criticized some aspects of the Games’ preparation, particularly the lack of transparency around athlete accommodations and the difficulties of navigating bureaucracy in the lead-up to the event. She also voiced frustration about certain decisions that she felt were made without sufficient consultation with athletes, such as scheduling conflicts and inadequate support for emerging sports.
However, Estanguet, who played a significant role in securing Paris as the host city for the 2024 Olympics, called for a more constructive approach. He acknowledged that the path to organizing the Games has not been without its hurdles but reminded the public and athletes alike that challenges are part of the process. He also noted that Khelif, like other athletes, has the opportunity to engage in dialogues with organizers to help shape solutions and improve conditions, rather than taking a combative stance.
The tension between Khelif and Estanguet highlights the ongoing challenges that organizers and athletes face as the 2024 Paris Olympics draw closer. While Estanguet is committed to delivering a world-class event, Khelif’s criticisms reflect broader concerns about the growing commercialization of the Olympics and the increasing pressure on athletes as they prepare for the world’s most prestigious sports competition.
It remains to be seen whether Khelif and other critics will engage in further discussions with the Paris 2024 organizing committee or whether their concerns will continue to spark debates about the Games’ future direction. For now, Estanguet is determined to ensure that the Olympics, despite its complexities, remain a symbol of unity, respect, and achievement.
