According to Tony Estanguet, president of Paris 2024, if the River Seine’s water quality is impacted by significant rain, the swimming leg of the triathlon at this summer’s Olympics may be canceled.

“Alarming” high levels of E. Coli were found in the river during recent tests conducted by the nonprofit Surfrider Foundation Europe.

According to Estanguet, backup measures have been made, such as postponing the event until later in the Games.

“We knew it will be a big challenge,” he stated.

As initially reported by the Guardian, external speaker Estanguet stated: “We can postpone due to rainy conditions” while speaking at Sport Accord in Birmingham. We can wait for better conditions because it is scheduled for the start of the Games. Thus, we are optimistic that using the Seine will be feasible. “And there is a final ruling where we are not allowed to swim; this is stipulated in the International Federation’s rules. Naturally, it’s what we want to stay away from.”