Paris Mayor Swims in the Seine Ahead of 2024 Olympics

Mayor Anne Hidalgo swam in the Seine to demonstrate its cleanliness for the 2024 Olympics. This follows substantial investments to clean the river. The event involves multiple leaders and marks a significant milestone, showcasing improved conditions after years of effort.

After months of anticipation, Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo took a dip in the Seine River on Wednesday, fulfilling a promise of showcasing the river's cleanliness ahead of the 2024 Olympics.

Clad in a wetsuit, Hidalgo plunged into the river near City Hall and Notre Dame Cathedral, accompanied by Paris 2024 chief Tony Estanguet and regional official Marc Guillaume. “The water is very, very good. A little cool, but not so bad,'' said Hidalgo upon emerging.

This effort underscores a $1.5 billion investment since 2015 to upgrade the Seine's water quality, preparing it for Olympic open swimming competitions and ensuring long-term improvements for Parisians. Daily tests have shown recent improvements after initial unsafe E. coli levels.