Paris Mayor Sparks Debate Over Keeping Olympic Rings on Eiffel Tower
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has sparked a significant debate by expressing her desire to keep the Olympic rings displayed on the Eiffel Tower even after the summer Games have concluded. Speaking to Ouest-France, Hidalgo asserted that the decision rested with her, noting that she had secured approval from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). “The Olympic rings will stay on the Eiffel Tower,” she confirmed.
While some Parisians support the idea, others, particularly heritage conservationists, have criticized the move, arguing that it would tarnish the iconic Parisian landmark. The five rings—each symbolizing a continent—were installed on the Eiffel Tower ahead of the Paris Olympics, which began on July 26. Measuring 29 meters in width and 15 meters in height, the rings were initially intended to be removed following the conclusion of the Paralympics on September 8. However, Hidalgo envisions keeping the interlocking rings, though she mentioned plans to replace the current, heavier version with a lighter alternative in the future.
The Socialist mayor emphasized that the Games have rekindled Parisians’ love for their city, and she hopes to preserve this festive atmosphere. Opinions among residents and visitors are divided. One woman, Solène, expressed her appreciation for the rings, saying they added a vibrant touch to the tower. Conversely, a local resident named Manon voiced her opposition, stating that the Eiffel Tower, as a historic monument, should not be altered with temporary decorations beyond the Olympics.
On social media, Christophe Robin pointed out that the Eiffel Tower had previously featured commercial advertising, referencing the Citroën ad that adorned the tower from 1925 to 1936. Robin suggested that Parisians should have been consulted before any decision was made.
The Eiffel Tower, constructed in 1889 for the World’s Fair, was initially met with criticism from Parisian artists and intellectuals but has since become a symbol of the “City of Light.” Hidalgo, who has been the mayor since 2014, is known for her bold and sometimes controversial initiatives, including pedestrianizing many streets and banning rental electric scooters through a city referendum. Her tenure has seen both successes and criticisms, such as the contentious increase in parking fees for SUVs, which some argued unfairly targeted larger family vehicles. Just before the Paris Olympics, Hidalgo and other officials even swam in the Seine to demonstrate the river’s improved water quality.
