Britt Jones
Fans have been left livid after being evacuated from an Olympics venue due to a weather warning.
Demanding a refund, ticket holders were caught by surprise after the hockey games were suspended on Wednesday (31 July) evening.
They were able to watch the first evening matches before the decision was made, seeing Spain play South Africa in the men’s tournament and China playing against the Netherlands in the women’s tournament.
But when the matches were suspended and fans had to leave while they continued, some were left raging and called it ‘disgraceful’.
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A statement from the International Hockey Federation explained that it was all down to the public’s safety.
It stated: “Following a warning from Meteo France of imminent storms, a decision has been taken by the venue and the local authorities to evacuate the stadium in the interests of public safety.
“The matches today are played as per the schedule.”
When the fans were removed, the games resumed behind closed doors.
However, the 2024 Olympics has yet to confirm whether attendees will be given a refund.
Fans swiftly took to Twitter to vent their frustrations at being asked to leave.
One person wrote: “The hockey has been suspended midway. Spain v South Africa now playing for an empty stadium, with terrible communication from the officials.
“I ask the organisers of Paris 2024 to issue refunds for me and all other ticket owners.”
However, even though Spain managed to gain a 3-0 win over South Africa in the men’s event, and Netherlands beat China in the women’s tournament when the games resumed, the damage had already been done.
Dale Jackson told The Hockey Paper: “What an absolute disgrace by the organising committee.
“My son and I flew all the way from South Africa to watch today’s games and, in particular, South Africa vs Spain.
“When told that the 2nd session had been suspended we were incredulous – there was no sign of an imminent storm with no approaching lightning or thunder. There was general confusion and disbelief amongst fans.
“When we tried to query whether the session was merely being delayed and whether we should perhaps stay in the vicinity of the stadium, we were rudely told by security to evacuate and that we should check the ticketing app for further information.
“At no stage were we given the option of remaining or watching the matches. I checked the ticketing app and social media but no further communication was forthcoming.
“I was dismayed to read, whilst on the train back to Paris, that the match had indeed gone ahead – without any spectators in attendance.
“A shockingly poor decision without any thought for fans who had travelled half way around the world, at great expense, for these matches.
“You’ve broken a 10 year old boy’s heart – well done Paris 2024 and FIH!”
The games have continued today without a hitch, and hopefully there are no further issues for fans - but whether they get a refund or not is a mystery.
Tyla reached out to the Paris Olympics for comment.