# French Rail Network Hit by ‘Malicious’ Arson Attacks Hours Before Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony
In a shocking turn of events, France's high-speed rail network has been targeted by coordinated acts of arson just hours before the highly anticipated opening ceremony of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. The train network, SNCF, reported on July 26 that several high-speed lines have been affected, leading to numerous train cancellations and diversions.
## The Incident
On the morning of July 26, SNCF Voyageurs issued a statement describing the situation as a result of "malicious" attacks. The company confirmed that multiple high-speed trains were either diverted or canceled due to these acts of vandalism. "Our teams are fully mobilized in stations, in the call centers, and onboard to ensure that all passengers are informed and can reach their destination," the statement read.
## Government Response
French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal condemned the attacks, stating that they were carried out in a "prepared and coordinated manner" on SNCF installations. He expressed gratitude to the firefighters and SNCF agents working to restore the network, acknowledging the anger of the French people as many families prepared for vacation travel. Attal assured that intelligence services and law enforcement are actively pursuing the perpetrators.
Transport Minister Patrice Vergriete echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the serious disruption to traffic and the impact on vacation plans for many French citizens. He labeled the incidents as "criminal fires" and thanked SNCF teams for their efforts to restore normalcy.
## Impact on Travelers
The ramifications of these attacks are significant, with SNCF President Jean-Pierre Farrandou estimating that around 800,000 people would be affected. He lamented the disruption, stating, "Today the major departure lines are attacked, an attack on the French. The celebration is spoiled."
Eurostar, the railway company operating services between London and Paris, also reported disruptions. All high-speed trains to and from Paris were being diverted via the classic line, extending journey times by approximately an hour and a half.
## Conclusion
As the world prepares to witness the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, the attacks on the rail network serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that can arise in the lead-up to such significant events. With thousands of athletes and spectators expected to travel to the city, the focus now shifts to restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of all involved.
The opening ceremony, set to begin at 1:30 p.m. ET, will still proceed as planned, but the shadow of these malicious acts looms large over the festivities.