The 2024 Olympics kicked off in Paris with a dazzling and unconventional opening ceremony. Thousands of athletes floated down the River Seine in boats, with vibrant performances taking place on bridges, riverbanks, and rooftops, marking a departure from the traditional stadium-based ceremonies.
The nearly four-hour event concluded with French judo star Teddy Riner and sprinter Marie-Jose Perec igniting a cauldron, designed to resemble a hot air balloon, that ascended into the Parisian sky. Fireworks in blue, white, and red lit up the Tricolore above Austerlitz Bridge as 6,800 athletes from 205 delegations sailed past iconic Parisian landmarks on 85 boats and barges.
The ceremony featured unexpected performances, including a cabaret act by Lady Gaga and an emotional appearance by Celine Dion. Despite major disruptions earlier in the day, such as arson attacks on the French train network and heavy rain, the ceremony maintained its energetic spirit. Rain forced athletes to don ponchos and umbrellas, but did little to dampen the vibrant depiction of French history, art, and sport, brought to life by around 2,000 performers.
The final two boats in the procession, representing the US (future hosts of the 2028 Olympics) and France, carried the largest number of athletes. Notable flagbearers included British rower Helen Glover and diver Tom Daley. IOC President Thomas Bach addressed the athletes, emphasizing the Olympics’ role in uniting the world amidst global conflicts.
Paris’s decision to stage the opening ceremony along the river rather than in a stadium had initially raised concerns about security and logistics. However, with extensive security measures and meticulous planning, the city executed its vision spectacularly. The ceremony included surreal moments, such as Lady Gaga performing surrounded by feathers and a torchbearer navigating rooftops and zip-lining.
The boats carried athletes past landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe, showcasing 12 artistic segments. Highlights included a tribute to the reconstruction of Notre Dame and performances of French history and culture. The ceremony concluded with the Olympic flame being carried by icons such as Zinedine Zidane, Rafael Nadal, Nadia Comaneci, and Serena Williams, culminating in a breathtaking display of a 30-meter-high hot air balloon.
Celine Dion’s performance of Edith Piaf’s “L’Hymne a l’amour” was a poignant finale, especially after her recent health struggles. Amidst the backdrop of global conflicts, the ceremony reinforced the Olympics’ message of unity and peace. However, the event was not without its mishaps, including a mix-up involving South Korean athletes and an upside-down Olympic flag.
As the Games proceed after opening ceremony, the schedule includes a range of events, with notable highlights such as swimming finals, tennis, and cycling. The day promises exciting competitions and a chance for athletes to shine despite the earlier challenges.
