A further 64 per cent of respondents believe that hosting the Games in Paris could have an impact beyond the French capital.

This follows a less optimistic study of 991 French citizens aged 18 or over, published in March, which found nationwide support at 56 per cent, with 64 per cent believing a French bid stood no chance of success. 

A Parisian Games in 2024 would mark 100 years since the Summer Olympics were last held in France ©Getty Images



"This investigation counterbalances surveys conducted among the general public that show a more mixed reaction," said Laurent Damiani, the President of Sporsora.

"Companies have a long-term vision and reflect on how an event can boost your business, accelerate development and contribute to the modernisation of the whole country." 

But although 93 per cent of companies surveyed believe that hosting the Games would help to give a more "positive" image of France, less than half think their business should support the bid and only 17 per cent would contribute financially to the project.

Since being appointed as Sports Minister in April, Najat Vallaud-Belkacem has refused to publicly back a Parisian bid for 2024, although she has repeatedly insisted a detailed consideration process is currently ongoing.

In her most recent message earlier this month, she admitted to remaining "cautious" and keen to understand the reason previous French bids have failed before committing to another attempt. 

"If we were to be nominated, it must be done in a common and unifying project," she said.

"The sports movement and the French Committee for International Sports (CFSI) are currently working, and we will continue discussions with all stakeholders.

"It is only after that we can make a decision."

Among those also considering bids are Rome, Berlin, Hamburg and up to six cities across the United States.

But all are still subject to official confirmation and are yet to be endorsed by the respective Governments in each country.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
May 2014: Lessons of Annecy 2018 failure to be studied before Paris 2024 bid decision, says French Minister
April 2014: Vallaud-Belkacem named new French Sports Minister and set for key role in Paris 2024 bid
January 2014: New French poll puts support for Paris 2024 bid at 56 per cent
November 2013: IOC President Bach meets Hollande to discuss potential Paris 2024 Olympic bid
October 2013: David Owen - Why the Olympic Movement needs a Paris 2024 bid