Paris was the first city to host the Olympics in 1900 and 1924. It is also the only city to have hosted the Summer and Winter Games at different times. The French capital has a long history with the Olympic Games, which was instrumental in their revival in the late 19th century.
The first modern Olympics were held in Athens in 1896, but they were not without problems. The games were marred by poor organization and attendance, and they nearly bankrupted the Greek hosts.
Afterward, it was decided that the Olympics would be held every four years in a rotating selection of host cities. Paris was selected as the site of the second Olympiad, which took place in 1900.
The Olympic Games In Paris
The 1900 Games were much better organized than their predecessor and were also far more successful. Nearly all the athletes who competed in Athens returned for the Paris Games, and new sports, such as golf and rugby, were added to the lineup. The most notable event of the 1900 Olympics was the marathon won by a Frenchman named Michel Théato.
After a 12-year hiatus, the Olympics returned in 1916 with the intention of being held in Berlin. However, the games were canceled due to the World War I outbreak. It was decided that they would instead be held in Antwerp in 1920. Paris was originally slated to host the 1924 Games, but they were awarded to Amsterdam after the Dutch capital promised to build a new stadium.
However, the Amsterdam Games were beset by financial problems, and the French capital was again awarded the Olympics. The 1924 Games were very successful, with nearly 4,000 athletes from 44 different countries competing.
The Olympics Return To Paris
Paris has not hosted the Olympics since 1924, but it remains an important part of the Olympic movement. The city is home to several international sports federations, including track and field’s governing body, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF)..
Paris has been hosted the 2024 Summer Olympics, tying London with a record of hosting three times.