• Cisco ensures robust cybersecurity and reliable network infrastructure for Paris 2024, using AI to prevent cyberattacks.

• Cisco partners with Atos, Intel, and Orange to enhance communication and broadcasting with 5G and video conferencing.

• Cisco commits to sustainability, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040 and environmentally friendly product…

Read more

• Thermo Fisher Scientific will provide top-notch equipment for accurate doping tests at Paris 2024.

• Ongoing Challenges: Despite improvements, some doping cases might still go undetected.

• Thermo Fisher’s support aims to ensure fair and safe competition at the Olympics.

Subscribe now

A somewhat controversial and sensitive yet extremely important aspect of a renow…

Read more

• Learn about the intricate process of qualifying for the Olympics in judo.

• Discover the transformative impact of participating in the Olympics on Marica's career and personal development.

• Gain insights into Marica's plans for higher education and envisioning a career outside of professional judo, showcasing the multifaceted journey of athletes beyond sports.

Subscribe now

Being a woman in sports is no walk in the park. Being a woman in judo… now, that’s a whole different dimension. Ever since childhood, she has faced looks of disapproval and a lack of understanding for her path. Judo, being a grueling, relentless, male-dominated discipline, wasn’t something the society imagined for a young girl. Luckily for her, Marica had flesh-and-blood proof of female excellence in judo - her mother, who has been involved in it for over two decades. The word fighter gets a whole new meaning when you’re not just going up against your opponent - but the society armed with prejudice.

Against all odds, Marica quickly became Serbia’s golden child with impressive stats: 1x Mediterranean champion, 2x Grand Prix champion, 1x Grand Slam champion (plus three bronze medals), and 1x European Championship gold medalist, with two bronze and one silver medal. A true warrior on and off the mat, Marica is the epitome of unwavering spirit; an athlete who turns defeats into lessons and doesn’t let victories change her. Amid her chaotic preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympics, Marica was kind enough to share her insights on the qualification process and thoughts on the transition from Olympian to non-Olympian, including her personal plans.

Q: Is the preparation process for the Olympics any different than preparing for other tournaments, and if so, what is the main difference? Are there factors that make this process more challenging or complex?

A: As someone who has participated in the Olympics and has been competing on the international scene for over a decade, including Euro and World championships, Grand Slams, Grand Prix, Masters tournaments, and World Cups, I can confidently say that there is a difference. You may wonder why I’ve mentioned all of these competitions. Often, people find it hard to see past our kimonos and belts and understand that there’s much more to judo than just tackling someone.

The Olympic Games are something special - but not that special at the same time. It is hard to understand this statement, but I’ll try simplifying it. In general, the Olympic Games cycle lasts for four years. In judo, during these four years, the competitors are collecting points for the World ranking list and the Olympic ranking list, which allows you to become the seeded/the leader of the group (of the first eight) in the competition, whereas the remaining competitors are categorized in groups (1-8/2-7/ 3-6/ 4-5 - and the group leaders meet in groups A, B, C, and D). 

The competitors that remain go through a random, automatized classification. Therefore, the ranking lists I mentioned are critical when qualifying for the OG since, in judo, you’re basically gathering the points until June. For instance, the final selection for the Paris 2024 won’t be determined until June, when only the first 18 contestants will qualify for the Games. There are also five continental norms that need to be fulfilled, but they’re not as vital since they’re a matter of luck and location.

The fact that only the first 18 contestants qualify for the games speaks in favor of how complex the process is and how important it is to stay consistent throughout the years until the very end of the qualification process - right before the Olympics. The top 18 athletes from all over the globe who make it to the Games represent the best that judo has to offer - and the competition is fierce. What’s more, mental pressure is a huge factor, as this is something you’ve been preparing for for four years, and still, there’s no guarantee that you’ll win that day or even make it to the finals. 

It’s simply judo - a unique and challenging sport that is cruel and allows no mistakes - not even for a second. Therefore, the complexity of the qualification process is the striking difference between OG and other tournaments I listed. In addition, the difference is felt in the preparation process, tactics, workouts, and conditions. The qualification is uncertain until the last moment, so judokas must always be prepared for everything. It is gruesome and calls for a great deal of physical and mental strength and ability throughout the entire process.

Get 10% off for 1 year

Read more

• Orange's 5G technology promises seamless communication and immersive viewing experiences for spectators.

• Orange sponsors events like the Paris 2024 Marathon Pour Tous, making the Olympics accessible to all people.

• Orange is committed to reducing carbon emissions and implementing eco-friendly practices, setting new standards for sustainability i…

Read more

• Salesforce's partnership with the Olympics enhances fan engagement through targeted content delivery.

• Using AI-powered analytics, Salesforce helps athletes optimize performance and prevent injuries.

• The "Athletes in Tech" program offers French athletes career development opportunities beyond sports through tech training and mentoring.

Subscribe now

Data analy…

Read more

• Deloitte will introduce sustainable practices and integrate AI technology, enhancing the Games' environmental impact and operational efficiency.

• Deloitte's initiatives, like Team Deloitte, will empower athletes with flexible work arrangements, enabling them to pursue Olympic dreams alongside their professional careers.

• The partnership reflects …

Read more

• Brace for Mondo's vibrant purple track, a departure from traditional terracotta, is designed to captivate viewers and spotlight athletes.

• Look forward to eco-friendly tracks made without microplastics, showcasing Mondo's commitment to sustainability in sports.

• Mondo's purple track continues the tradition of record-breaking performances optimized…

Read more

• Expect groundbreaking technology like 5G, AI, and VR to elevate the Olympic experience thanks to Intel's innovations.

• Intel's partnership promises flawless HD broadcasting and advanced event planning tools like OnePlan's 3D mapping.

• The $400 million deal with Intel is ending soon, leaving the future of their Olympic involvement uncertain.

Subscribe now

Technology is one of many notions that come to mind when discussing sports. In fact, many argue that the two aren't related at all. However, even the most traditional minds would have to agree that a show-stopping event such as the Olympic Games lies on the foundation of state-of-the-art technology. This revolutionary technology brings the authentic Olympic experience to the homes of spectators on the edge of their seats around the globe. 

Since the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games, Intel has been a critical factor in the Olympic technological scheme. While it is uncertain whether the fruitful collaboration between the global software innovator and the Olympic Committee will continue, even if Paris marks the end of their journey, Intel will go out with a bang.

Intel's Olympic Road: The Power of Technology

Seven years ago, the world's leading fast-food chain decided to dissolve the Olympic partnership. After over four decades, faced with the increased cost of sponsorships and unsatisfactory TV ratings, McDonald's opted out - leaving a spot open. 

It wasn't long before the Olympic universe welcomed the technology giant in all its glory. Intel introduced an innovative, imaginative approach to the Olympic experience, implementing 5G technology, artificial intelligence, drones, and virtual reality.

According to Sarah Vickers, the Director of Intel's Olympic Program Management, Intel is "excited to use new technologies to bring deeper levels of interaction to Olympic and Paralympic fans around the world, especially as Intel leverages AI, compute and connectivity to transform the broadcast landscape." 

Furthermore, the company views the Games as an exclusive opportunity to unite the world "not only by a desire to watch the world's best, but by innovative technology solutions that enable new levels of connectivity, streamline and secure operations, increase sustainability and deliver data-rich experiences."

Private 5G Network

Intel's first step in revolutionizing the Paris 2024 coverage is introducing a private 5G network superior to traditional Wi-Fi. To achieve the best network coverage and offer unmatched security, Intel created a completely wireless system, significantly decreasing the setup time. The network is controlled by a compact and portable mobile radio base station that allows maximum coverage even in outdoor locations that once represented a challenge for organizers.

Partnered with Cisco , Intel is shaping the future of live event broadcasting, providing minimal-latency HD video transmission even from remote locations. However, the revolution continues beyond the Games; other industries will also benefit from this networking innovation in the future.

Collaboration with SoReal

Read more

• Omega unveils the Quantum Timer with microsecond precision, revolutionizing timekeeping for over 10,000 athletes.

• With smartphones and smartwatches dominating, Omega navigates declining sales by targeting niche clientele and emphasizing status symbolism.

• Omega uses famous people and personal relationships to keep their appeal strong, even in tod…

Read more

• SNCF uses low-carbon trains for the Paris 2024 Olympics, showing commitment to sustainability.

• SNCF focuses on improving station accessibility and offering diverse travel options for a smooth journey.

• Anticipating challenges, SNCF implements measures like information volunteers to ensure efficient transportation during the Games.

  

Subscribe now

As the excitemen…

Read more

• Allianz takes the popular GRWM (Get Ready With Me) social media campaign and makes it their "Get Ready For The Best" campaign to offer engaging online events for Paris 2024.

• Allianz connects with young people through programs like MoveNow and TikTok challenges, promoting active participation in sports.

• Allianz provides comprehensive support for …

Read more

• Panasonic will continue to provide top-notch technological support at the Olympics.

• Initiatives like the IOC Young Leaders Programme will empower young athletes to create positive change in their communities.

• Partnerships with athletes like Katie Ledecky and Hannah Cockroft show Panasonic's commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

  

Subscribe now

With billi…

Read more

• Air Liquide's sponsorship at Paris 2024 showcases its hydrogen tech for sustainability, setting a precedent for greener events.

• Strong Growth: Air Liquide is making lots of money and expanding to new places, building more factories and businesses around the world.

• As hydrogen gains prominence, Air Liquide aims to diversify its business beyond tr…

Read more

• Bridgestone emphasizes athletes' mental preparation, with insights from Olympians like Adam Peaty and Charlotte Worthington on their strategies for Paris 2024.

• Bridgestone offers Olympic ticket giveaways with tire purchases, engaging fans directly and enhancing the Olympic experience.

• As a founding partner of the Olympic Channel, Bridgestone pro…

Read more

• ArcelorMittal unveils "green steel" for Paris Olympics torches, signaling a shift towards low-carbon production.

• ArcelorMittal faces challenges like fluctuating prices and global competition, which raise questions about its long-term sustainability.

• With rising consumer demand for eco-friendly steel, ArcelorMittal aims to secure its role in the…

Read more

• LVMH will bring luxury to the Olympics with unique designs and exclusive offerings.

• Athlete Support and Social Impact: The company will support athletes and contribute to societal causes, going beyond sponsorship.

• Public opinion varies, with some praising LVMH's alignment with Olympic values and others questioning its luxury focus.

Subscribe now

LVMH, the luxu…

Read more

• Sanofi will try to appear more modern and relatable. They want to be seen as a company that cares about health and inclusion, not just profits.

• Sanofi will be involved in the torch relays and have their own team of athletes. This will give them more exposure and allow them to connect with Olympic fans.

• Sanofi will use the Olympics to raise awar…

Read more

• P&G will give $24,000 to 20 athletes around the world to donate to their favorite charities.

• There is a new documentary called Rising Phoenix coming out on Netflix that will talk about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.

• P&G has always been a sponsor of the Olympics, and this year, they will focus on giving back to communities and…

Read more

• Samsung: Merging Tech and Sport in Paris 2024 Get ready to witness Samsung's tech prowess take center stage at the Olympics! With the slogan "Open Always Wins," they're set to revolutionize the games with their innovative gadgets, ensuring athletes and fans alike have an electrifying experience.

• From Bricks to Galaxy S24s: Samsung's Olympic jou…

Read more

1. Decathlon: From Everyday Athletes to Olympic Champions: Explore Decathlon's rich history of innovation, commitment to sportsmanship, and its pivotal role in making sports accessible globally.

2. Gearing Up for Paris 2024 Olympics: Discover how Decathlon is more than just an official partner of the Paris 2024 Olympics; it's the backbone, providing …

Read more