Paris 2024 Olympics

The Paris 2024 Olympics opened in spectacular style with an innovative ceremony on the River Seine, featuring famous Parisian landmarks, and came to an end at the Eiffel Tower.

The Seine was transformed into a vibrant, surreal stage, combining history and modernity in a spellbinding show conceptualized by Thierry Reboul and directed by Thomas Jolly. The parade included 85 boats carrying 6,800 athletes, with Greece leading the flotilla, followed by the Refugee Olympic Team. The Indian contingent, dressed in tricolor-themed ceremonial attire, stood out with 78 athletes and officials from 12 disciplines. Notable Indian athletes included P. V. Sindhu, Sharath Kamal, Deepika Kumari, and Lovlina Borgohain.

As the boats traveled six kilometers from Austerlitz Bridge to Pont d'Iena, athletes passed by key Olympic venues like Parc Urbain La Concorde and the Grand Palais. The event featured stunning cultural performances, including a cabaret show by Lady Gaga and music from French artists like Aya Nakamura. Seventy-one giant screens and 170 cameras captured the action, ensuring everyone could enjoy the magical atmosphere. At twilight, the bridges lit up, setting the stage for the Olympic flame's grand entrance.

French judo great Teddy Riner and sprinter Marie-Jose Perec lit a cauldron shaped like a hot air balloon, rising high into the Parisian sky, symbolizing the start of the Games. Blue, white, and red fireworks added to the spectacle, celebrating the Tricolore. The ceremony also featured ballet, opera, and famous artwork coming to life, illustrating French history, art, and sport. Over 10,500 athletes from 205 delegations will compete across 32 sports until the Games close on August 11. The unique waterway parade and performances highlighted Paris' rich cultural heritage, marking a historic and memorable start to the 33rd Olympic Games.

See Also: Olympics | Olympia | En Route Paris | Land Ahoy | Paris 2024