Abstract
ABSTRACT As the Games model becomes increasingly contested, Paris 2024 aims to set a new standard for sustainable mega-events. Explicit ambitions include making the Paris Games those of France, a crucial component for legacy. To achieve these goals, organisers ran several programmes with the Olympic Torch Relay (OTR) being one of the most emblematic. In this paper we analyse this nationwide mobilisation Olympic programme, in order to sought grasp on what happened between what is planned (enthusiasm anticipated and hoped for by organisers in associating territories with pre-Olympic activities) and what is perceived (controversy that arose following the refusal of many French departments to commit to the project). Adopting an interpretative approach of implementation, we identified three indicators to shed light on adherence’s mechanisms to the OTR. Local officials’ refusals more specifically stem from a rejection of the OTR’s implementation modalities rather than an outright rejection of the Games. Decisions made by the pro-Olympic coalition underscore a focus on population hubs and growth poles over rural areas. This inclination directing negotiations towards entities more conducive to contractualisation result as a neocorporatist model of implementation. Given the escalating controversies associated with mega sport events and the Olympic Games, this study offers a novel lens through which one can evaluate local elected officials’ relationship with Olympism.
Published Version
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