Opening Ceremony Macron-Sports Minister Controversy Over Cheek Kiss [Paris Olympics]
At the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, a scene where French President Emmanuel Macron and Minister of Sports Am?lie Oud?a-Cast?ra exchanged cheek kisses and hugs was captured, sparking controversy.
On the 26th (local time), President Macron declared the opening of the Paris Olympics after the Seine River parade concluded at the ceremony held in the Trocad?ro Square.
After the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, French President Emmanuel Macron and Amelie Oudea-Castera, Minister of Sports, share a joyful fist bump. Photo by EPA·Yonhap News
Afterwards, President Macron greeted Thomas Bach, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, who was seated with him in the VIP section, along with other French government officials.
The issue arose from the cheek kiss between President Macron and Minister Cast?ra captured during the opening ceremony. Minister Cast?ra, who has been preparing for the Olympics, held Macron’s neck with one hand and gave a cheek kiss, a traditional French greeting.
This photo has continued to stir controversy. Some have pointed out that it looks like an embrace between lovers. The French magazine Madame Figaro, which first published the photo, titled the article "A Strange Kiss," commenting that "Minister Cast?ra continues to attract attention." The French media Midi Libre noted, "After the Olympic opening ceremony ended, the pressure disappeared and happiness took over."
The British daily The Telegraph reported on the 30th that "this photo caused a huge stir in France." However, it also mentioned, "Some argue that Minister Cast?ra gives cheek kisses in a similar manner to other athletes and that she is simply passionate about the Olympics."
Netizens’ reactions have been cold as well, with many comments such as "An inappropriate photo between the president and the minister."
Amelie Oudea-Castera, French Minister of Sports, jumping into the Seine River (left). [Photo by French Ministry of Sports, Paris Olympic Organizing Committee/AP=Yonhap News]
Meanwhile, Minister Cast?ra, a former tennis player, was appointed earlier this year when President Macron reshuffled the cabinet, taking on the role of Minister of Sports as well as Minister of Education. However, controversy arose when it was revealed that she sent her children to prestigious private schools in Paris, and she was replaced less than a month after her appointment. Additionally, ahead of the swimming events held in the Seine during the Paris Olympics, she donned a full-body wetsuit and entered the Seine amid ongoing water quality controversies, which led to ridicule.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
