Arson Attacks Disrupt France's High-Speed Rail Ahead of Paris Olympics

Arson attacks and vandalism struck France’s high-speed trains, causing travel disruptions just before the 2024 Paris Olympics. The incidents have affected several critical routes and engendered significant delays, compromising vacation plans and stirring condemnation from French officials.

Arson attacks and other 'malicious acts' have hit France's high-speed train network, disrupting the transport system, the country's national rail operator reported on Friday. These acts occurred just hours before the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The French railway operator SNCF reported vandalism on multiple high-speed train routes, according to DW. The TGV high-speed rail lines to the west, north, and east were particularly affected, with some sections of service cut off, causing significant delays.

'Coordinated malicious acts targeted several TGV lines last night and will seriously disrupt traffic until this weekend,' said the country's Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete on X. 'I strongly condemn these criminal actions which will compromise the vacation departures of many French people. A big thank you to the #SNCF teams working tirelessly to restore traffic.'

Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera also condemned the attacks. Speaking to BFM TV, she said, 'To play against the Games is to play against France, against your side, against your country.' Oudea-Castera added that the impact on travelers and Olympic athletes was being assessed and assured smooth transportation for all delegations to the competition sites.

The SNCF stated that the disruptions on the Atlantic, North, and East lines would persist at least through the weekend while repairs are underway.