Paris 2024 Olympics: does the French left despise competitive sport?
Is the French left really opposed to the Olympic Games and sport in general? This question has recently gained momentum, sparking reactions from several parliamentarians. Accused of neglecting the Olympics and sport, the left faces criticism relayed from the National Rally to Macronie, as well as by certain observers of the public debate.
Debates on social networks
A particularly shared message is that of Philippe Marlière, political scientist at University College London. On This statement was applauded by RN deputy Matthias Renault, who added: “The left has never liked sporting competition, except when it came to celebrating communist regimes. »
Reactions and denials
Socialist senator Corinne Narassiguin recalled on
Historically, the left has often supported sport. The first Undersecretariat of State for Sports was created in 1936 by the Popular Front government. Many left-wing figures, such as Alexis Corbière, Jérôme Guedj, and Manon Aubry, regularly express their support for Olympic practice and competition. Journalist Nicolas Kssis-Martov recalls that “our champions are the fruit of a public service of sport, largely supported and defended by the left”.
An unjustified anti-sporting reputation
La France insoumise (LFI) announced on July 25 the creation of a popular commission of inquiry into the Paris Olympics, criticized by the President of the National Assembly Yaël Braun-Pivet and other figures of the presidential majority. This initiative was seen as anti-Olympic populism. However, this is not enough to conclude that the entire left is anti-sports. Indeed, many left-wing elected officials show enthusiasm for the Olympics, support the athletes and mainly criticize the social and environmental aspects of the event.
Despite the criticism, elected officials from LFI expressed their support for French athletes. David Guiraud encouraged the athletes, while Manon Aubry, a swimming and water polo fan, offered her services to France Télévisions to comment on the water polo events.
Alice Leroy
