Olympic Games Cause Temporary Name Changes for Iconic French Stadiums
As the world gears up for the Olympic Games in Paris, notable changes are taking place in the names of some iconic French stadiums. The renowned Orange Vélodrome, home to Olympique de Marseille, will temporarily be renamed Stade de Marseille during the Olympics and Paralympics. This change is in accordance with the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) clean venue rule, which prohibits any form of advertising or sponsorship-related naming at Olympic venues.
This renaming practice is not limited to the Vélodrome. Other stadiums, such as the Groupama Stadium in Lyon, will be known as Lyon Stadium, while the Allianz Riviera will become Nice Stadium. Similarly, the Matmut Atlantique will be renamed Bordeaux Stadium, and the Decathlon Arena in Lille will revert to its original name, Pierre-Mauroy Stadium. In addition, the AccorArena in Bercy will simply be referred to as Arena Bercy, and the new Adidas Arena will be called Arena Porte de la Chapelle. This renaming reflects the IOC's commitment to maintaining a clean and unobstructed environment during the Games.
Excitement Builds as Paris Prepares for the Olympic Games
With the opening ceremony just days away, the atmosphere in Paris is charged with excitement. Vanessa, a French expat living in Austria, captures the spirit of anticipation as she walks near the construction site for the archery events at the Invalides. "It immerses us in the fervor of the Olympics," she expresses, revealing her long-standing obsession with the event. She eagerly awaits the taekwondo events at the Grand Palais and the BMX freestyle competitions at Place de la Concorde.
As preparations continue, the city remains surprisingly calm, with many locals having temporarily vacated the streets, making way for tourists. A vacationer shares the sentiment, acknowledging the expected chaos that will follow the Games. With the world watching, Paris is poised to showcase its charm and hospitality, welcoming athletes and spectators alike for an unforgettable Olympic experience.
- The clean venue rule is a significant aspect of the IOC's regulations, aiming to prevent commercial clutter in Olympic venues. This rule not only applies to the Olympic Games but also extends to other major sporting events, such as the Rugby World Cup, ensuring a consistent approach to maintaining the integrity of sports venues. The anticipation surrounding the Olympics is palpable, as athletes and fans prepare for a celebration of sport and unity amidst the backdrop of Paris.
