Highlights from the Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games
On the evening of Wednesday, August 28, 2024, the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games commenced with a grand Opening Ceremony held at the iconic Place de la Concorde. This remarkable event showcased the spirit and commitment of athletes and representatives from around the world, celebrating inclusivity and the essence of the Paralympic movement.
The ceremony was inaugurated by former French Para swimmer, Théo Curin, who arrived in a taxi adorned with Paralympic symbols. His enthusiastic welcome of “Welcome to Paris!” was followed by a spectacular display of blue, white, and red fireworks illuminating the Parisian skyline, setting a festive tone for the evening.
As the program unfolded, the Phrygians took the stage to herald the arrival of the various delegations, accompanied by the impressive aerial displays of the Patrouille de France. The athletes’ parade spanned over 90 minutes and concluded at sunset with the French delegation, which was led by Nantenin Keïta and Alexis Hanquinquant, showcasing nearly 150 Para sports personnel. The energizing beats of DJ Myd provided atmosphere as the Phrygians danced in celebration.
A poignant moment ensued as the French flag was raised by veterans of the French Army, accompanied by a rendition of “La Marseillaise,” reimagined by Victor Le Masne and performed by the Ensemble Matheus. Simultaneously, the colors of blue, white, and red were projected onto the Concorde obelisk, creating a truly magical scene.
Following remarks from prominent figures including Tony Estanguet, President of Paris 2024, and Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, Emmanuel Macron, the President of the French Republic, ceremoniously declared the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games officially open.
As the Paralympic flag was processed to the stage, the Paralympic Oath was solemnly recited by athletes Arnaud Assoumani and Sandrine Martinet, culminating in a poignant moment with the arrival of the Paralympic Flame, carried by Olympic champion Florent Manaudou. The sacred flame was entrusted to Michael Jeremiasz.
In a display of artistry, 150 dancers and performers, equipped with flaming torches, formed the Agitos—a symbol of the Paralympic Movement—while Beatrice Vio, Oksana Masters, and Markus Rehm bore the Paralympic Flame. Markus Rehm then made an inspired journey running with the Flame from Place de la Concorde to the Jardin des Tuileries.
A collaborative effort followed as Assia El Hannouni, Christian Lachaud, and Béatrice Hess joined Alexis Hanquinquant and Nantenin Keïta in the ceremonial lighting of the Paralympic Cauldron. This moment epitomized both camaraderie and triumph in the face of adversity.
The ceremony concluded on a high note with a performance of “Born to be Alive” by Christine and the Queens, leading into a breathtaking fireworks display. The festivities terminated with the iconic tune “Je t’aime moi non plus,” effectively encapsulating the spirit of the event. The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games thus commenced, symbolizing hope, perseverance, and the celebration of extraordinary athleticism.
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