French police detain Russian man over alleged Olympic disruption plot

The man is accused by prosecutors of planning to organise events that could potentially destabilise the Games.

Although details of his actions have not been disclosed, the arrest follows warnings that Russia might seek to sabotage the Olympics in response to its ongoing exclusion from the event.

The Paris 2024 opening ceremony is scheduled for this Friday, with some competitions, including football, already beginning today.

"There are clearly fake threats and we are living this for months now. That is a very deplorable situation," Olympics chief Thomas Bach said.

"It's about threats, it's about defamation, it's about trying to create insecurity among participants, potential spectators.

"But so far we have to say that these different attempts were not really successful. The people have realised what is going on there - for political propaganda purposes."

Organisers have been advised to brace for potential disruptions, including cyber attacks and misinformation campaigns, which could be carried out by Russian agents. 

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