Eiffel Tower Descendants Protest Olympic Rings

Descendants of Gustave Eiffel are opposing Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo's decision to permanently keep the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower, which they argue should not be used as an 'advertising outpost'. Mayor Hidalgo announced on August 31 that the rings, installed for the 2024 Olympics, will remain after the events conclude, with permission from the International Olympic Committee. Eiffel's descendants, including Savin Yeatman-Eiffel, express concern that the iconic tower, a symbol of Paris, should not be solely associated with a single event. Olivier Berthelot-Eiffel, another family member, stated that while they have no issue with the rings staying temporarily, a permanent association with an external organization is inappropriate. The French Minister of Culture has also criticized the mayor's plan, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of changes to protected architecture. The Eiffel Tower, completed in 1889, has been a universal symbol and should retain its broader significance beyond any single event.