At what point do they just move the outdoor water events to the ocean? I understand it's a hit to national pride to move them, but won't the publicity be far worse if a bunch of athletes get sick?
However, Rio wanted to have some sort of legacy after the olympic games, something to be proud of after spending so much money while people are suffering without health and security. So the governors chose Baía de Guanabara! It's poluted as fuck, but the intent was to cleanse it before the games and have it as the Olympic legacy.
As always, Brazil screwed it and the bay still is a shit hole. Hell, 2 days ago they found in the bay the body of a college student that was murdered nearby.
Source: Live in Brazil. Send help
If athletes don't get sick, the politicians get political capital.
If athletes do get sick, the politicians will be nowhere to be found.
Either way, they already made their money in bribes.
Welcome to Brazil.