France Bids Farewell to a Memorable Summer of Sports at the Paralympics Closing Ceremony

Sports John Brightwater September 8, 2024

France Bids Farewell to a Memorable Summer of Sports at the Paralympics Closing Ceremony

Saint-Denis, France – The summer of sports in France has come to a formal conclusion, bidding an energetic farewell at the closing ceremony of the Paralympics. This remarkable journey began under torrential rain on July 26 and reached its finale on Sunday evening at a rain-drenched Stade de France.

This summer not only showcased the exhilarating spirit of athletics but also underscored France’s prowess as a host, setting a high precedent for future sporting events, particularly for Los Angeles as it prepares for the 2028 Games. As the stadium illuminated in the vibrant blue, white, and red of the French national flag, an eloquent trumpet player resonated the strains of “La Marseillaise,” while Paralympic flagbearers entered the venue amidst the inspiring melody of “Chariots of Fire” by Vangelis.

In a heartfelt closing address, Tony Estanguet, the head of the Paris Olympics 2024, emphasized the significance of the Games in promoting inclusivity, stating, “Everyone can see what an inclusive world is like; now there is no turning back.” Andrew Parsons, the President of the International Paralympic Committee, praised France for setting extraordinary standards, noting, “Paris 2024 has set a benchmark for all future Paralympic Games.”

The ceremony also featured powerful performances, including a rendition of the American national anthem by Ali Stroker, who made history in 2019 as the first wheelchair user to win a Tony Award. The audience was treated to a visually stunning handoff segment, showcasing the Venice Beach Skate Park as a dynamic feature for skateboarders and wheelchair motocross athletes.

The evening culminated with the celebrated French composer Jean-Michel Jarre, who entertained the crowd with his electronic music set against the backdrop of a captivating open-air dance party. The artistic direction of the ceremony, led by Thomas Jolly, aimed to create an atmosphere of jubilation, celebrating French electro music through contributions from over 20 prominent DJs, including Étienne de Crécy and Martin Solveig.

Despite earlier skepticism regarding the continuity of enthusiasm following the Olympics, the spirit remained high throughout the Paralympics, as evidenced by the strong turnout. While not all venues reached full capacity, a commendable 2.4 million tickets were sold out of 2.8 million available, showcasing the public’s unwavering support for athletes.

Through the lens of sport, French success was pronounced, with the nation capturing a total of 64 medals during the Olympics, including 16 golds, and amassing 75 medals at the Paralympics. The events were well-organized, and police presence was marked by positive engagement with attendees, a refreshing development in public security during large gatherings.

Yet, the sustained impact of this summer of games remains uncertain, notably observed through public protests following the Prime Minister’s recent appointment and visible discontent directed towards President Emmanuel Macron during the closing event.

In summary, France’s summer sporting season has indeed left an indelible mark, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also the power of unity and creativity. The legacy of these Games sets a promising tone for the future of the Paralympic movement and beyond.

Kaitlyn Huamani of the Associated Press contributed to this report. For further developments and updates on the Paralympic Games, please refer to the official AP Paralympics page.