Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo is already focused on the enduring legacy of the Games. Speaking on France Bleu Paris, Hidalgo shared her vision for maintaining some of the event's most iconic elements long after the closing ceremony, according to 20Minutes.
Keeping Symbolic Pieces
Hidalgo expressed a desire to keep several symbolic pieces of the Olympics as part of Paris’s cultural heritage. These include the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower, the Olympic flame at the Tuileries, and the statues of ten French women that floated on the Seine during the opening ceremony.
"These three artistic and symbolic objects deserve our attention," Hidalgo remarked. While she cannot guarantee their permanence, she emphasized that they represent an aspect of the Olympic legacy she hopes to preserve.
Commission Will Adress Issues
Reflecting on the opening ceremony, Hidalgo described it as a powerful emotional experience.
"We have had difficulty coming down from it," she admitted. The ceremony was praised for its blend of strength, humor, and emotion, which captivated not only Parisians but people around the world.
However, the Olympics have not been without controversy. Some local businesses have expressed frustration with the stringent security measures, which they feel have negatively impacted their operations.
Hidalgo acknowledged these concerns, stating that "some were significantly affected." She assured that a commission will address these issues and that the state will provide compensation. Despite these challenges, she maintained that the ceremony has been a resounding success for the city and most of its businesses.
