Explained: Tahitian Surfers’ Battle Against $5 Million Olympic Tower

The pristine waters of Teahupo'o, known for its awe-inspiring waves and thriving marine life, have become a focal point of contention between Tahitian surfers and the 2024 Olympic organizers. Amidst plans for an aluminum judging tower, surfers and concerned citizens are rallying to preserve the delicate reef and diverse ecosystem.

A 'peaceful' protest

On October 15, 1,500 Tahitians peacefully protested against the Aluminium tower, emphasizing that the construction could endanger the fragile lagoons' coral reef, as Tahitian surfer Matahi Drollet led the charge on social media.

A plea to President

Matahi Drollet went public again on social media recently, explaining the local battle, while calling for Moetai Brotherson, the president of French Polynesia, to get involved.

Implications of $5 Million Tower at Teahupo'o

In an Instagram video discussing details of the tower, the threat to the marine ecosystem, and the Olympics' sustainability commitment, Drollet wrote,"There's no way we gonna let them destroy this place for 3 or 4 days of the contest" while inviting Brotherson to understand the importance of healthy reef and marine ecosystem.
(credit: @matahidrollet, Instagram)

Explained: Tahitian Surfers’ Battle Against $5 Million Olympic Tower

A 'peaceful' protest

On October 15, 1,500 Tahitians peacefully protested against the Aluminium tower, emphasizing that the construction could endanger the fragile lagoons' coral reef, as Tahitian surfer Matahi Drollet led the charge on social media.

A plea to President

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