Paris Olympic Track Features Mussel Shells

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games feature a unique all-purple track at the Stade de France, which is not only visually striking but also potentially the fastest Olympic track to date. Constructed by Mondo, the track incorporates an eco-friendly base made from ground mussels and clams, and a design that includes air bubbles for enhanced performance, making it up to 2% faster than the Tokyo 2020 track. The innovative use of shell waste addresses environmental concerns, with Mondo claiming that the new track offsets emissions comparable to a car traveling 60,000 km. The design includes three colors of surface material and specifically engineered polymer components to improve traction for athletes. Early feedback from athletes has been positive, with expectations for several world records to be set on this advanced surface. This development marks a significant step towards sustainability in Olympic infrastructure and highlights advancements in sports technology.