Every four years, the world turns its attention to the Olympics, a moment that encapsulates the most intense human emotions and aspirations.

This summer, Paris will host the Games, which unfold against a backdrop of significant geopolitical and economic challenges. The Olympics have often intersected with global politics, from the propaganda of the Berlin Games under the Third Reich to the historic moments like Jesse Owens' victories and Muhammad Ali's protest.

The Olympics, originating in Ancient Greece and revived by Baron Pierre de Coubertin in 1894, carry the motto "Citius, Altius, Fortius" – "Faster, Higher, Stronger." These values underscore the aspirations for both athletes and society. However, this year’s Games are noteworthy not just for their athletic feats but also for their economic and technological context.

Economically, the impact of the Olympics has been mixed. Despite substantial spending, the direct influence on GDP has been negligible for host countries in recent decades. South Korea, Spain, the USA, and Brazil saw little economic growth directly attributable to their hosting of the Games. For France, the estimated economic impact is modest, around 0.1% of GDP. The projected costs of €9 billion, largely funded by the private sector, are balanced by anticipated revenues from various sources, including hospitality, ticketing, licensing, broadcasting rights, and partnerships, totaling approximately €1.5 billion. Additionally, tourism is expected to generate €3 billion, creating 120,000 jobs. Despite these figures, the real interest in hosting the Games lies elsewhere.

These Paris Olympics are the first post-pandemic Games, occurring during a period of significant digital and environmental transformation. They represent a stage where global technological supremacy is contested by the United States, Europe, China, and Russia. This geopolitical context raises the stakes for France and Europe, who aim to showcase their technological and environmental leadership.

The opening ceremony on the Seine will be a significant moment for France to project its advancements. The Games will feature innovative arenas, connected athletes, anti-drone technology, body scanners, and other cutting-edge technologies, embodying the spirit of "Citius, Altius, Fortius" in a modern context.

As we look forward to these Olympic Games, there is hope that amidst the technological and economic narratives, the essence of sport will shine through, thrilling audiences worldwide and propelling us into a future where both athletic excellence and technological innovation coexist. Let’s allow the spirit of competition and unity to prevail, if only for a month, as the world gathers to celebrate human potential and achievement.