Olympic village initial food shortage sparks alternative dining choice

Early food shortages at the Olympic Village and exceptionally long waits for protein led athletes to seek alternative dining options, while some said on Wednesday (July 31) that the situation is improving as the Games progress.

Outside the Olympic Village, the USA team was seen delivering boxes of rice into the village, while some other athletes said they ordered food deliveries or chose to dine outside.

In specific venues, such as the Roland Garros tennis facility, special dining arrangements were made to meet the needs of tennis players. Casper Ruud’s coach, Marcel Da Cruz, told Reuters that Ruud was very surprised by the initial situation in the Olympic Village.

Some athletes, such as those from the USA and Brazil, could dine at their national training facilities, enjoying cuisine from their home countries.

The Olympic Village, where athletes are hosted, faced criticism for the quality and quantity of food after catering staff rationed breakfast eggs last week.

Organizers had promised fresh produce mostly made in France to cater an estimated 40,000 meals a day to 15,000 athletes in the Olympic Village. Some athletes demanded more meat, and while some noted the situation has improved, they also believe it could be even better.

German track athletes said on Wednesday the situation has changed drastically as there are no longer long waiting times to get the food.