Returning after a century, the Paris Olympics 2024 opening ceremony took place on Friday, July 26 with city lights sparkling in a splendor like never before. A boat carrying 7000 athletes in a ‘Parade Of Nations’ was carried out stretching for 6 kilometers on the river Seine, as thousands of spectators lined up across the central part of the city to witness the four-hour-long ceremony.
Emmanuel Macron Announced The Opening Of The Olympics
French President Emmanuel Macron declared the Olympic Games open on July 26. International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach presented an energizing speech at the ceremony while welcoming athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees, including the Refugee Olympic Team. Thomas Bach referenced musician John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ to urge people to come together ‘in a world torn by wars and conflict’. Football player Zinedine Zidane participated in the comical opening of the grand ceremony. The Minions were also featured in the opening act, representing different sports at the Olympics.
Lady Gaga And Celine Dion Performed At The Ceremony
The grand ceremony was decorated with performances of legendary artists like Lady Gaga and Celine Dion. Split into 12 artistic tables, the ceremony invited around 2000 artists. The ceremony featured the most famous monuments in Paris and is based on the 12 themes of liberty, equality, fraternity, sisterhood, sportsmanship, and festivity. The show also featured a sensational show honoring legendary athletes including Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, and Carl Lewis. From India, P V Sindhu and Sharath Kamal were made the flagbearers at the floating parade. 78 athletes officials were from the Indian contingent at the Parade Of Nations.
6000 Athletes And 300,000 Spectators
France’s oldest living gold medalist at 100, Carlos Coste also participated in the torch ceremony before the Olympic cauldron was lit at the Gardens of the Tuileries. The Olympic cauldron was seen in the night sky attached to a hot air balloon, next to the Eiffel Tower creating a magical view for the viewers. More than 6000 athletes along with 300,000 spectators lined up to view the splendid ceremony at River Seine. The light show, the performing athletes, and the 85 boats following the Parade of Nations remained uninterrupted by the rainy evening. 10,500 athletes are competing at the Paris Olympics in 2024. The Olympics will be held from July 26 to August 11. Reportedly, China has become the first to win the gold medal at the first-ever full gender-neutral games.