Athletes With COVID Compete at Paris Olympics

The Paris Olympics have been dubbed the 'who cares about COVID' Games, as many athletes, including bronze medalist Noah Lyles, compete despite testing positive for the virus. Unlike the stringent protocols of the Tokyo and Beijing Games, Paris organizers have only issued health recommendations without any restrictions, allowing athletes to participate if they feel able. The atmosphere resembles pre-COVID times, with fans interacting freely and minimal mask-wearing among the crowds. The World Health Organization reported that over 40 athletes have tested positive during the event, highlighting a significant contrast to previous Olympic health measures. IOC President Thomas Bach stated that COVID-19 is now treated as any other respiratory illness, reflecting the shift in public health attitudes. This approach has raised concerns amidst a global rise in COVID-19 cases, particularly as athletes like British swimmer Adam Peaty also faced illness shortly after competing.