Current Affairs - Sports

Manu Bhaker won the bronze medal in the women’s 10m air pistol event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, making her the first Indian to secure a medal at these Games. This achievement also represents India's first Olympic medal in shooting since the London 2012 Games. Manu's success is significant as she became the first Indian female shooter to win an Olympic medal and the first woman in two decades to reach an Olympic final in an individual shooting event. Her achievements build on a remarkable career, including multiple national and international accolades.

Lewis Hamilton won the 2024 Formula 1 Rolex Belgian Grand Prix after his Mercedes teammate George Russell was disqualified for having an underweight car. Initially, Russell finished first, but his disqualification due to a technical infringement handed the victory to Hamilton. The race featured an intense battle between the two Mercedes drivers, with Hamilton utilizing a two-stop strategy and ultimately benefiting from the disqualification to claim the win.

Nita Ambani, IOC member and founder of the Reliance Foundation, inaugurated India House at the Paris 2024 Olympics on July 27, marking a significant milestone for India. This is India's first country house at the Olympics, serving as a symbol of the nation's Olympic aspirations. India House is intended to be a "home away from home" for athletes, celebrating their achievements and providing a venue for cultural showcases and activities during the Games. The initiative reflects India's growing presence and ambitions in the global Olympic movement.

On July 24, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) named the French Alps as the host for the 2030 Winter Olympics, although the decision is subject to certain conditions. The bid, supported by French President Emmanuel Macron, includes ski resorts in the French Alps and ice sports venues in Nice. Despite France currently having a caretaker government, organizers are confident in securing the necessary guarantees from the future government.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has elected Salt Lake City, located in Utah, USA, as the host for the 2034 Winter Olympics and Paralympics Games. The decision was made during the 142nd IOC Session held in Paris on July 24. Salt Lake City previously hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002, and the strong support from the public and political spheres, along with excellent facilities, contributed to its selection. This event aims to extend the transformative benefits experienced during the 2002 games to a new generation.