The Yvelines department will be at the heart of the Paris 2024 Olympics. Today, let’s focus on the Palace of Versailles, which will host equestrian events and modern pentathlon.
A view of the planned developments in the Palace of Versailles park for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. A view of the planned developments in the Palace of Versailles (Yvelines) park for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. (©Paris 2024)
The Palace of Versailles is an iconic and universally recognized symbol of French history. In 2024, this royal setting will provide a grand backdrop for the Paris Olympic Games. It is here that several events, including equestrian competitions, will take place, offering spectators and viewers an exceptional and unprecedented spectacle.
The historic site will host equestrian competitions (July 27 to August 6, 2024), including para-equestrian events (September 3 to 7), and three out of the four modern pentathlon events (August 8 to 11).
Expected Attendance: 15,000 to 40,000 Spectators
Depending on the discipline, between 15,000 and 40,000 spectators will be accommodated. To achieve this, temporary facilities will be set up in the National Domain park, near the Royal Star, at the end of the park towards Saint-Cyr-l’École.
This will include a temporary arena with multiple grandstands and an esplanade that will grace the western side of the Grand Canal, right in the heart of the Palace of Versailles park.
Equestrian Sports and Modern Pentathlon
This arena will host two events of the complete competition (dressage and show jumping), as well as show jumping and dressage competitions (Olympic and Paralympic). The individual and team cross-country events of the complete competition will take place around the Grand Canal.
The swimming, equestrian, and laser-run (running with pistol shooting stages) events of the modern pentathlon will also be organized at the Palace of Versailles (fencing will be held at the Arena Paris Nord in Villepinte, Seine-Saint-Denis ).
It’s worth noting that on the day of the individual complete competition’s cross-country event, it will be possible to access the site on foot by crossing the palace park.