Paris Olympics: A Practical Guide for African Fans

The Paris Olympics will grab global attention — and African fans should be ready. This guide gives clear, useful tips: when the Games happen, how to watch from Africa, travel basics, and which athletes to follow. No fluff — just what you need to plan and enjoy the event.

Dates, schedule and how to watch

The main Olympic Games run over about two weeks in summer, followed by the Paralympics. Exact event dates and session schedules are on the official Olympics site and national Olympic committees. Broadcast rights vary by country. In many African markets, check major sports broadcasters like SuperSport/DStv, local public broadcasters, and the IOC’s official streaming platform for live coverage. If you prefer online, official Olympic streaming and rights-holder apps are the safest options — avoid unofficial streams that might be unreliable or unsafe.

Tip: match start times to your time zone before planning viewing parties. Track events and marathons usually air live in Europe’s evening; for West and Central Africa that often means late afternoon to evening local time, while East and South Africa may see later slots.

Travel, tickets and staying safe

Thinking of going to Paris? Book flights and accommodation months ahead — prices spike close to the Games. Apply early for a Schengen visa if you need one and check whether your country has special visa lanes for athletes, officials, or fans. Use official Olympic ticketing channels only. Resale markets exist, but verify legitimacy to avoid scams.

Paris has strong public transport: Metro, RER and buses will move most spectators. Expect crowded trains near venues; give yourself extra time. Keep copies of important documents, use a simple money belt for valuables, and beware of pickpockets in busy areas. Download local transport apps and a translation app for quick French phrases; most staff speak some English but basic French helps.

For those staying home, create a watch plan: choose key events, follow live results, and use social feeds from your national Olympic committee to track athletes from your country.

If you plan to follow qualifiers and team announcements, your national athletics, boxing, swimming, and football federations are the best sources. African athletes often secure places through continental qualifiers or world rankings — so follow those updates closely.

Paris is also pushing greener transport and venue reuse. Expect bike lanes, temporary seating, and many events near riverfronts and parks. If you care about lower-impact travel, take trains where possible and use public transport in the city.

Want updates tailored to Africa? Bookmark this tag and follow your national Olympic committee on social media for team lists, travel notices, and final schedules. Enjoy the Games — cheer loud for the athletes and stay smart while you travel or watch from home.