Belgian and Swiss Triathletes Fall Ill Following Race In River Seine

"PARIS — Belgium has withdrawn from the mixed relay triathlon race on Monday and Switzerland has had to mix up its roster after athletes from both countries fell ill following the initial triathlon races last week.

Belgium announced it was dropping out of the race after one of its triathletes, Claire Michel, has fallen ill, its National Olympic Committee said in a statement. The statement did not specify Michel’s illness, which was reported days after she swam in the River Seine during the women’s triathlon on Wednesday.

“The BOIC and Belgian Triathlon must unfortunately announce that the ‘Belgian Hammers’ will not be starting the mixed relay at the Paris Olympic Games tomorrow. The decision, like this communication, was taken in consultation with the athletes and their entourage,” the statement read. "

Kyle Feldscher and Issy Ronald report for CNN August 4, 2024.

SEE ALSO:

"Belgium Withdraws From Mixed Relay Triathlon After Athlete Who Swam In Seine River Falls Ill" (AP)

"Olympics Triathlete Jolien Vermeylen Rips Officials After Swimming In Polluted Seine River: ‘Felt And Saw Things That We Shouldn’t Think About’" (New York Post)

Source: CNN, 08/05/2024