A decision on whether a $5 million aluminum judging tower will be constructed at Teahupo’o for the 2024 Paris Olympics will be made by the end of November, Reuters reported this afternoon.
Earlier today, we reported that Paris 2024 Olympics organizers have refused to relocate the surf competition to Taharuu Beach after French Polynesia’s president, Moetai Brotherson, suggested the move in response to controversy over the tower.
The issue got heated in October when Tahitians peacefully protested the tower and launched a petition that’s since gained over 150,000 signatures. Opponents say the tower will damage the ecosystem and possibly the wave itself.
According to Reuters, Paris 2024 president Tony Estanguet said:
“As for the judges’ tower, we reopened the issue a few weeks ago to see how we could improve it and respond to the concerns and expectations of the local population” explaining that either the installation would be made or the wooden tower would be used if up to safety standards.
“Various options are currently being worked on by engineers, local authorities and the Polynesian government, which is responsible for building the tower.
“They are looking at different options for potentially reusing the foundations of the previous tower, which have not been compliant up to now for safety reasons.
“A decision is expected to be made by the end of November on which option will be chosen,” he said.
Reuters said Estanguet plans to visit Tahiti in the coming weeks.
Protesters asked the Olympics to use the existing wooden judging tower the WSL has used for years instead of constructing a new one.
Numerous Tahitian pro surfers, including Matahi Drollet, have been super vocal about the issue.
***
Don’t miss another headline from SURFER! Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of surfing. We’re always on the lookout for amusing, interesting and engaging surf-related videos to feature on our channels.
Whether you’re a professional surfer or just an amateur, we want to see your best footage and help you share it with the world. Submit your video for a chance to be featured on SURFER and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality surf videos.