On the day of the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, France’s high-speed TGV rail network faced severe disruptions. State-owned SNCF reported that “malicious acts” caused significant damage to its facilities overnight. The railway operator described these as “simultaneous arson attacks,” leading to extensive service interruptions.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete condemned the attacks as an “outrageous criminal act,” emphasizing their severity. SNCF announced that many train routes would be canceled throughout the weekend for repairs, significantly impacting travel during this crucial period.
Arsonists targeted major lines connecting Paris to the west, north, and east of France, though the southeastern line remained unaffected after a planned attack was thwarted. International train services, including those to Belgium and London via the Channel Tunnel, were also impacted.
As Paris prepared to welcome 7,500 athletes and 300,000 spectators for the opening ceremony, the disruptions added to the city’s challenges. Al Jazeera reports that the attacks highlight France’s significant security issues during the event.
National police are investigating the incidents, identified as coordinated acts of “sabotage.” Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera expressed her outrage, stating that attacking the games is akin to attacking France itself.
It remains unclear if the attacks are directly linked to the Olympics, but the attacks are described as “evidently coordinated,” suggesting a deliberate attempt to disrupt the ceremony. The tense geopolitical backdrop includes ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, and accusations of double standards related to Israel’s participation in the games.
SNCF has advised passengers to postpone travel and avoid train stations due to the ongoing disruptions, which have affected many French families and summer vacation plans. SNCF Chief Executive Jean-Pierre Farandou reported that around 800,000 passengers have been impacted, highlighting the significant effect of the arson attacks on both domestic and international travel.