In Brussels, a special Olympic train to take Belgian supporters to Paris

The excitement for the Paris Games is palpable in Brussels, where many supporters take a low-cost train to attend the events.

The Paris Games already look like a success, with people in the halls, stadiums, around the pools and also in front of the television to watch the events. An undeniable craze, also visible in the countries bordering France, such as Belgium for example, where a special Olympic train has been set up by SNCB, the Belgian National Railway Company. Throughout the Olympic period, it connects Brussels to Paris for a more affordable price than the usual Eurostar, which travels between the two capitals all year round.

At the departure of this train named EuroCity, on platform n°7 of the Gare du Midi in Brussels, the Belbeaume family is early and all there. There are six of them leaving for two days to attend the competitions. “We will see three disciplines: water polo, hockey and gymnastics,” smiles Chloe.

“It’s exceptional! It’s probably the only time we’ll be able to go to the Olympic Games without taking a plane.”

Michel Belbeaume

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The EuroCity train leaves twice a day to Paris. The journey is slower than the Eurostar but much cheaper. “It’s more economical for families, then Paris by car is inaccessible”adds the mother, Françoise.

On board the train, Max and Jérôme, two Brussels residents, have already taken their seats. “We’re going to watch hockey because we’re both hockey players. We’re going to watch the women’s team, the Red Panthers, play. Belgium-France, that’s going to be pretty good! It’s their first Olympics and they still have a vague hope of a medal. There’s going to be some atmosphere!” they assure.

Both supporters hope to see many Belgian medals, in field hockey of course, almost a national sport here. They are also betting on cycling for the road race events, after the two Belgian medals in the men’s time trial (Evenepoel in gold and van Aert in bronze).