Olympic Swimmers Rely on Coca-Cola to Combat Seine Pollution

Despite extensive efforts to clean the Seine, athletes turn to unscientific methods to avoid illness during Paris 2024 events.

Concerns about Seine's water quality persist despite $1.5 billion in cleanup efforts.
Athletes from multiple countries drink Coca-Cola post-race, believing it helps prevent infections.
Experts argue the soda's acidity is ineffective against bacteria compared to natural stomach acid.
Several events were postponed or saw withdrawals due to pollution-related health concerns.
Paris officials remain optimistic about long-term improvement of the Seine's water quality.