Sabotage, Security Concerns, and Scandals Shadow Olympic Opening

The 2023 Olympics have begun under a cloud of challenges: France's railways were sabotaged hours before the Opening Ceremony, weather forecasts predict rain, and multiple athletes have withdrawn due to illness or injury. Additionally, Canada's women's soccer chief was sent home after a spying scandal.

Hours before the Olympics Opening Ceremony, France's high-speed train network faced major disruptions due to coordinated sabotage attacks. Vandals damaged signalling boxes, affecting some of the busiest rail lines into Paris.

Security remains a primary concern, especially with forecasts predicting rain as the event kicks off. The Opening Ceremony is set to feature over 7,000 athletes and 3,000 performers, with delegations parading along the River Seine before 300,000 spectators.

Meanwhile, Canada's women's soccer chief Bev Priestman was sent home following a spying scandal involving drones allegedly used to monitor New Zealand's training sessions. Moreover, several tennis stars, including Elena Rybakina and Jannik Sinner, withdrew due to health issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)