The arrest came a couple of days ago following a raid on his home, but months after the police intercepted a phone conversation. In that call, the chef was speaking with Russian intelligence services about the opening ceremony of the Games. In the call, the chef mentioned that "French people are going to have an opening ceremony like they’ve never had before," a chilling phrase that only heightened suspicions about his intentions.

Authorities found evidence suggesting that the chef planned to “organize events that could cause instability” during the Olympic Games, according to police sources. 

Additionally, the prosecutor's office indicated that a judicial investigation has been initiated for sharing information with a foreign power with the aim of provoking hostilities in France, a crime that can carry up to 30 years in prison. However, it is believed that the alleged plot was not related to terrorism.

In the words of Gérald Darmanin, France's Minister of the Interior, “other Russian citizens have also been arrested in connection with attempts to spread disinformation before the Games.” This information was disseminated in one of his latest statements to the press. 

Darmanin told BFM TV that it was firmly believed that the chef planned operations of “destabilization, interference, and espionage”: "He is now at the disposal of the justice system, which will be able to confirm the police's suspicions," added the French politician.

Adding to this chaotic episode, last month, Microsoft claimed that Russia was attempting to undermine the Olympic Games by creating fake websites that sought to mimic seemingly authentic French media and digital newspapers using artificial intelligence, thereby fueling concerns about violence and terrorism at the world's most-watched sporting event.

Relations between France and Russia have been deteriorating for months due to the bloodshed in Ukraine. President Emmanuel Macron is a prominent critic of Vladimir Putin's invasion and a strong supporter of the Ukrainian government. Now, it remains to be seen how the Games will unfold in a tense atmosphere between certain European countries.

The ambitious opening ceremony of Paris 2024 will be held on Friday night along the banks of the Seine, and concerns have long existed that Russia might attempt to interfere with the events. The arrest of the chef and the reinforced security measures demonstrate the seriousness with which French authorities are taking these threats.