Damage was caused to several railway lines. © APA/afp / DENIS CHARLET

Shortly before the Olympic opening: arson attacks in France

Just a few hours before the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris, unknown assailants set several arson attacks on the high-speed train network in France. Athletes were also affected by the consequences of the incidents.

July 26, 2024

From: dpa

What happened?
According to the SNCF, there were arson attacks on the high-speed train network during the night into Friday. According to media reports, signaling systems were set on fire and cables were cut, among other things. The exact background is still unclear. High-ranking politicians such as Prime Minister Gabriel Attal are talking about acts of sabotage.

France's Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete tries to inform about the situation. © APA/afp / THIBAUD MORITZ

Were people injured?
There are currently no reports of any incidents or accidents as a result of the attacks; no one seems to have been physically injured. The French authorities and the railway company have not yet made any specific comments on the matter.

Which railway lines are affected?
According to the SNCF, there were fires on three axes: the eastern axis, which leads from Paris to Strasbourg; the northern axis, on which the Eurostar, among others, travels towards the English Channel and London; and the Atlantic axis from Paris to the southwest.

Security measures have been increased. © ANSA / RITCHIE B. TONGO

What consequences do the arson attacks have for passengers?
According to SNCF, rail traffic around Paris is severely restricted in some areas. A total of 800.000 people have to accept train cancellations. Every second train heading east and north and every fourth express train heading towards Bordeaux are affected, said acting Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete. The effects will be felt throughout the weekend. Eurostar advises its passengers to postpone their journeys if possible.

Countless passengers are stuck in train stations. © APA/afp / CHRISTOPHE ARCHAMBAULT

What are the implications for the games?
The route to the Stade de France in the north of Paris - where rugby matches and athletics competitions are taking place - is also currently closed. However, direct restrictions on the sporting events were limited because there is no training or competition scheduled for Friday. However, some athletes had to cancel and postpone their journey. The Olympic organizers have not yet provided any information on whether the incidents will affect the opening ceremony in the evening.