Paris Diamond League Confirmed To Go Ahead Despite Heatwave Concerns

Sunday's Paris Diamond League will go ahead as planned despite earlier calls from police authorities for the meeting to be cancelled because of the extreme heat currently affecting much of France.

Earlier on Friday, Paris police requested that the event be called off, arguing that emergency services should be prioritised to protect vulnerable people during the ongoing heatwave. Authorities had also urged organisers of several other large public events across the French capital to consider cancelling.

However, the French Athletics Federation has since confirmed that the meeting at Stade Charléty will proceed on Sunday following discussions with the Paris police prefecture.

Organisers say the meeting will operate under an adapted format designed to protect everyone attending, with only elite competitions taking place. All non elite activities have been cancelled as part of the revised schedule.

The federation said it has been working closely with government authorities throughout the week and stressed that the safety of athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, spectators and event staff remains its highest priority.

A number of additional measures will be introduced to help manage the extreme temperatures, including a later opening time for spectators, extra medical and emergency personnel, more drinking water stations and increased shaded areas around the stadium.

Several Irish athletes remain on the start lists for Sunday's meeting.

Sharlene Mawdsley is set to make her long awaited Diamond League debut in the women's 400m, while Sarah Healy is entered for the women's 1500m. Andrew Coscoran is also scheduled to compete in the men's non Diamond League 1500m.

France has experienced record breaking temperatures this week, with much of the country placed under the highest level of heat alert as authorities continue to monitor conditions.

Despite the challenging weather, organisers remain confident that the meeting can be staged safely under the revised arrangements.