French telecommunications company Orange has continued its commitment to major sporting events held in its home country by agreeing to become a premium partner and official supplier to the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Orange joins Groupe BPCE and EDF as a domestic premium partner and will act to ensure Paris 2024 is a fully connected Games. Orange will install high speed broadband networks in all venues and, as an official supplier, said it will offer fans and broadcasters “optimal quality of service”.
Orange will connect all the Games venues with fibre optic and mobile networks. It will connect its first site under the partnership, the future head office of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee in Saint-Denis, in early 2021.
Orange has a strong history of supporting international sporting events held in France, including football’s UEFA Euro 2016, cycling’s Tour de France and tennis grand slam the French Open. Stéphane Richard, chairman and CEO of Orange, said: “Organising the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 offers a huge opportunity for the French economy and represents an incredible technological challenge for Orange.
“Connecting each location and everybody involved to high-speed networks will be an essential factor in successfully bringing the Games to life. During the next four years, Orange’s teams will be fully engaged in making this challenge a reality by harnessing the power of our networks to enable people across the world to share and enjoy this unique event.”
The announcement came a day after Paris 2024 proposed a number of changes to its venue plan as it looks to cut costs amid COVID-19. Paris 2024 has identified three areas of review to optimise its organisation: the number of venues, the level of services provided during the Games, and non-event locations.
Tony Estanguet, president of Paris 2024, said: “Delivering the telecommunications during the Olympic and Paralympic Games is a big challenge. As the event draws closer, the world’s eyes will be turning to Paris.
“The connectivity needs to be flawless for people at the venues and online, so they can enjoy the event to the fullest, and share the excitement with others. We are convinced Orange will be a great partner to tackle this challenge and create this bond.
“Orange’s technological expertise and experience with sports events is tremendous. Paris 2024 and Orange will work hand in hand to organise innovative and spectacular Games that bring people closer together.”
Image: Orange
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