The Olympic Games in Paris entered every Bulgarian home. This was said by Vesela Lecheva during an online meeting as a member of the committee on “Public Affairs and Corporate Communications” of the International Olympic Committee.
“Besides the successes of the Bulgarian athletes, the data from the Bulgarian media showed that 75% of our compatriots watched, read, and followed through social networks what was happening in Paris,” commented Lecheva.
Half of the world’s population watched the Olympic Games, said IOC President Thomas Bach, who once again gave high praise to both the hosts and everyone involved in the organization.
“Despite the political tension and the raging wars, we had peaceful games. In Paris, the athletes and all members of the Olympic family called for an end to conflicts, and the competitions succeeded, at least for a while, in uniting the world against aggression and hatred, they gave hope,” stated Bach .
“It is important that the IOC remains an independent organization that does not take into account the current political situation, but follows the Olympic principles and ideals,” Thomas Bach was categorical during his meeting with the members of the Commission.
The Commission’s report noted that the Games were an undisputed success not only because of the sporting achievements, but also because of the huge spectator interest.
“Bulgarian National Television‘s live broadcasts of weightlifter Carlos Nassar‘s championship trials, rhythmic gymnastics finals, wrestling and the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games achieved record results and became the most watched summer events. BNT’s daily overview broadcasts of everything happening in Paris also attracted a large audience that became part of the Olympic family. In Bulgaria, viewers also watched the Olympics on the streaming platform Max, as well as on Eurosport 1 and Eurosport 2. These broadcasts were watched by 49% more viewers compared to the Tokyo Games “, reported Vesela Lecheva, citing the data for Bulgaria.
Anne Dean, Paris 2024 Communications Executive, told Commission members that there were 2.7 million posts during the Games. Those with a negative connotation are 12% of the total content and are related to the controversial opening scenes, the women’s boxing tournament, the topic of the cleanliness of the Seine. All this against the background of 12 billion posts, 600 million followers of Olympic content on social networks and record ratings of television broadcasts around the world.
“The success of the Games was related to the national commitment we were able to achieve and the synergy between spectators and competitors,” added the director of communications.
The next challenges for the IOC and the Commission on Public Affairs and Corporate Communications are related to artificial intelligence in sport, so that it becomes available to all Olympians, not just those whose countries are technological leaders.
“Olympic solidarity is leading for our organization, but such solidarity must also be there in the use of new technologies that will change the sport in many aspects. The most important thing is to put the person at the center and to be able to preserve fair play,” said Bach .
Interview between Time.news Editor (E) and Olympic Expert Vesela Lecheva (L)
E: Welcome, Vesela! It’s great to have you with us today. The recent Olympic Games in Paris seemed to have had a tremendous impact, especially in Bulgaria. Can you share your insights on the level of engagement from Bulgarian audiences?
L: Thank you for having me! Yes, the Olympic Games truly entered every Bulgarian home this year. Our data indicated that an impressive 75% of Bulgarians actively followed the events, whether through traditional media or social networks. It highlights not just the local pride in our athletes, but also a national unity in celebrating sports.
E: That’s remarkable! With such high viewership numbers, do you believe the Olympic spirit was particularly strong this year due to the global context?
L: Absolutely. President Thomas Bach highlighted the importance of the Games during a time of political tension and conflict worldwide. The Olympic Games provided a platform for athletes and spectators to come together and foster a sense of hope amid adversity. It served as a reminder that despite our differences, we can unite through sports.
E: It must be promising to see that kind of resilience in events like these. Can you elaborate on the specific achievements of Bulgarian athletes during the Games?
L: Of course! Bulgarian athletes showcased incredible talent, particularly in weightlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, and wrestling. The performances drew significant viewership on Bulgarian National Television, and the broadcasts of events like Carlos Nassar’s championship trials achieved record ratings. Fans particularly connected with our athletes, rallying behind their successes and making our share of the Olympic family feel quite vibrant.
E: It’s exciting to see sports galvanizing communities like that. In your opinion, how does media play a role in the overall popularity and success of the Olympics?
L: Media is crucial. The extensive coverage by both traditional broadcasters like Bulgarian National Television and digital platforms like Max allowed for a broader reach. In fact, we saw 49% more viewership during these Games compared to the Tokyo Olympics. The Olympics become an event that everyone can participate in, even if they’re not physically present.
E: That thinking aligns perfectly with the vision of the International Olympic Committee. Do you think the IOC’s stance on remaining politically neutral has any impact on the public’s perception of the Games?
L: Definitely. The IOC’s commitment to independence allows the Olympics to champion its ideals regardless of global tumult. It creates an atmosphere where athletes and fans alike can focus on sports, camaraderie, and the joy of competition, rather than the outside world. That purity draws many to engage deeply with the Games.
E: As the conversation shifts towards future Olympics, what can we learn from Paris’ success that could be adapted for upcoming events?
L: The key takeaway is the importance of community engagement and the ability to showcase human resilience in the face of challenges. Each host city should aim to create inclusive experiences that connect local cultures with the Olympic spirit. Encouraging more interactive media coverage and fostering a sense of local pride can further elevate global interest.
E: Those are valuable insights, Vesela. It’s inspiring to see how sports can lead to unity and hope, especially in today’s world. Thank you for sharing your expertise with us.
L: Thank you for the opportunity! It’s a pleasure to discuss something so meaningful. Let’s keep the Olympic spirit alive!