Political bickering, persistent grumbling about ticket prices and disruption to daily life are souring the mood ahead of Paris 2024. Several recent announcements have led to a surge in negative publicity for the sporting mega-event, which will kick off in six months and attract a television audience of billions.

The main protagonists will be the 10,500 athletes competing for glory, most of whom will live in the Olympic Village. It is estimated that there will be 15 million visitors, including two million from abroad, with an average of 40,000 agents a day providing security.

With just over six months to go until the start of the 33rd Olympic Games of the modern era, in which more than 10,000 athletes will take part, the Olympic year has begun and the focus is on the stars who will be shining in the French capital.

Just two more tickets to Paris were up for grabs on the final day of the FIH Hockey 2024 Olympic Qualifiers in Valencia, Spain and Muscat, Oman on Sunday.

The French capital is preparing for one of the biggest security challenges in its history: 600,000 people are expected to attend the unprecedented Opening Ceremony on the Seine and an average of 40,000 security personnel will be on duty every day. The IOC has full confidence in the "plans in place."

Hundreds of police officers protested across France on Thursday to press their demand for extra pay during this year's Olympic Games in Paris. The protests underlined the threat of strikes and disruption to the Games.

The construction of part of the Athletes' Village, the renovation of the Grand Palais monument and the Colombes swimming pool are the only three sports facilities currently slightly behind schedule according to the work plan.

The four national teams secured their qualification by winning the semi-finals of the FIH 2024 Olympic Qualifiers. The semi-finals took place last Thursday in Ranchi and Valencia. Japan, Ireland, India and Great Britain still have one more chance to qualify for Paris 2024.

Despite security concerns and the potential for attacks, Israel has confirmed its participation in the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. It has also been confirmed that Israeli athletes will be accommodated in the Olympic Village, just like any other delegation.

This Saturday sees the start of the Pre-Olympic Football Tournament in Venezuela, which will determine the two spots reserved for CONMEBOL at Paris 2024. Brazil must secure their place if they are to defend their title, while Argentina must qualify if they are to see Messi at the Olympics.

Spain won a tight match against Croatia 10-11 with a crucial goal from Granados to claim the European Water Polo Championship. They also picked up another prize by qualifying for Paris 2024.

Almost 20,000 military personnel will be mobilised during the Olympic Games in Paris (26 July - 11 August). This was announced on Tuesday by Pierre Schill, Chief of Staff of the French Army, at a press conference in Metz.

Alejandro Blanco, President of the Spanish Olympic Committee (COE), expressed great optimism that his country would be able to beat the record medal tally of Barcelona 92 (22). He also reiterated that Madrid is the best city to host the Olympic Games.

The Pope wants the power of sport to 'break down barriers and promote peace' to end the world's wars.. He is focusing on the Paris 2024 Olympic Games as a global showcase and a source of 'hope'. His words came during a meeting with the Athlética Vaticana. Vatican News reported.

The FIVB (International Volleyball Federation) has announced that national teams participating in Paris 2024 will have the option to include an additional player as a reserve. The total roster will now consist of 13 players, with the reserve only able to play in exceptional circumstances.