In a recent development surrounding the Paris 2024 Olympics, Tony Estanguet, the president of the organizing committee, has responded to concerns raised by Sebastian Coe about the high cost of attending the Games. Coe, the president of World Athletics and former head of London 2012 Olympics, had warned that the ticket prices for the athletics finals at the Stade de France might deter genuine fans, highlighting prices ranging from €85 to €990 for various categories.
Estanguet argued that the pricing strategy for Paris 2024 was in line with, if not cheaper than, previous Olympics, particularly when compared to London 2012. He noted that a significant portion of the Paris Olympics’ budget relies on ticket sales, necessitating a range of ticket prices, including premium options. He pointed out that, adjusted for inflation, the maximum ticket price for London 2012 would be just over €1,000 today, slightly above the highest ticket price for Paris 2024.
Addressing concerns about potential empty seats, Estanguet reassured that the event’s ticketing strategy aims to ensure full stadiums and a festive atmosphere. He highlighted the commitment to making the Games accessible to a wide audience, with over four million tickets priced at €50 or less and a million seats available at a starting price of €24.
Estanguet’s defense of the ticket pricing comes amidst a broader discussion on the affordability and accessibility of major sporting events. The Paris 2024 Olympics, set to be a significant event in the global sports calendar, aims to balance budgetary needs with the objective of wide public participation and enjoyment. With Estanguet’s remarks, the organizing committee stands firm on its pricing strategy, emphasizing value and experience over cost.
