Speaking to Al-Ahram Weekly, Shaaban said his new post "was a great honour and a great responsibility at the same time".

Since taekwondo was introduced to the Olympics in Sydney 2000, the role of technical delegate had been held by three South Koreans and one Frenchman. 

The 2000, 2004, and 2008 Games were presided over by South Koreans, the home of taekwondo, and the 2012, 2016, and 2020 Games overseen by Frenchman Philippe Bouedo, the former president of the Games Committee at the WT. 

On what sets taekwondo at Paris 2024 apart is that the event, from 7-10 August at the Grand Palais, is being held in a historical royal palace built in 1900, located in the heart of Paris. This iconic site, also hosting fencing events, provides a luxurious and majestic backdrop. 

"Royal stairs, giant eight-metre high doors, and a steel and glass nave will help us create an extraordinary setup for the competition," he said. Additionally, the competition will be more dynamic under the new "best of 3" system where the winner must win two of the three sets.

Shaaban, known for his revolutionary ideas, revealed further innovations for taekwondo in Paris. "We have leveraged the grandeur of the competition site, the Grand Palais, to create a fabulous setup," he explains. The bleachers, made of steel and standing 50 metres high, will surround the elevated tatami on a podium, creating an arena-like atmosphere. 

The hall’s design, with steeply inclined seating and a central bleacher, will resemble venues for MMA competitions or gladiator arenas, enhancing the spectator experience. The colour scheme will feature shades of purple and blue, with blue as the primary colour.