The attacks on the city of Paris on Friday evening were at restaurants, a music venue and the Stade de France. The attackers wanted to disrupt the reasons why many live in Paris: the crazy and colorful lives lead by twelve million people in an area much too small (as noted by Mr. Kuper of FT).
I am posting this picture from the Stade de France, the stadium I go to each July, with 45,000 of my closest friends to watch a great night of track and field.
Stade de France, photo by PhotoRun.net
PARIS ATTACKS
PARIS (FRA): An explosion at the Stade de France in Paris during France’s win over Germany on Friday evening left three people dead and several more injured, it has been reported. The stadium is the place of the yearly IAAF Diamond League meet and also hosted the World Championships in 2003. The stadium is due to be the centrepiece of the French capital’s bid to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. French police officials have confirmed two suicide attacks and one bombing had taken place near the Stade de France.
MONACO (MON): The IAAF condemns attacks and sends its deepest sympathy and condolences to all affected by this outrage against innocent members of the public. IAAF President Sebastian Coe commented: “This was an horrendous act of barbarity at which the whole athletics family unites in condemnation. On 7 July 2005, the day after London won the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games, the British capital suffered similar attacks with over 50 dead and many hundreds injured. I know London and the whole of Britain stands united with Paris and France today.”
LAUSANNE (SUI): IOC issued a statement of its president Thomas Bach: “This is not only an attack on the people of France and Paris, this is an attack on humanity and all humanitarian and Olympic Values. We stand united with all people from all around the globe. Our thoughts are of course with the families and friends of those who have been killed or wounded. We support also the outstanding work of so many men and women in the medical and security fields who are assisting the population in these very difficult moments. In these dark times, we should remember the unifying power of sport to unite people and communities and to bring peace and reconciliation. Today all people of goodwill will say: We are all French. Today, I have sent a letter of condolence and support to President Hollande and I have ordered that the Olympic flag be put at half-mast to remember this tragedy.”
KINGSTON (JAM): Many top athletes showed their sympathy for French people and Paris. Fastest man on earth Usain Bolt on his twitter: “So sad to hear of the attacks in Paris. Thoughts with all the victims and their loved one..”
BOULOGNE BILLANCOURT (FRA): The 19th Semi-Marathon de Boulogne-Billancourt Christian Granger (IAAF Bronze Label) has been cancelled due to Friday’sterrorist attacks in Paris. Also the cross country event in Nimes was cancelled.
