On July 30, the Paris Olympic Organizing Committee officially announced the postponement of the triathlon due to the inadequate water quality of the Seine River. Subsequently, there were reports suggesting that officials might consider canceling the swimming leg. However, Benjamin Mézé, Technical Director of the French Triathlon Federation, made it clear in an interview with RMC Sport that he does not support the proposal to switch to a duathlon.
Mézé stated, “The organizing committee and the International Olympic Committee inevitably have some concerns, but we should focus on what we can control. They are doing everything possible to increase the likelihood of holding the triathlon as scheduled because, from a regulatory or technical standpoint, switching to a duathlon is inconceivable.”
“It would no longer be the same sport. We have been preparing for the Olympic format triathlon, and we hope to hold the event and enjoy it with enthusiastic spectators.”
“If it was known from the start that there would be no swim leg, that would be fine. With no disrespect to duathletes, we have been preparing for the triathlon.”
Director of the French Triathlon Federation: Not in Favor of Canceling the Swim Leg—Duathlon is a Different Sport. Author：Sports UEFA.Please indicate the source when reproduced：https://www.sportsuefa.com/football-world/director-of-the-french-triathlon-federation-not-in-favor-of-canceling-the-swim-leg-duathlon-is-a-different-sport.html
