In a spectacle marked by grandeur and stringent security measures, Marseille became the epicenter of Olympic fervor as the iconic Olympic flame arrived just outside the Old Port on Wednesday. The event unfolded 79 days ahead of the much-anticipated Paris 2024 Games Opening Ceremony.
The arrival of the flame was a culmination of a remarkable journey, tracing back to Ancient Olympia where it was ignited 11 days prior. Transported aboard the majestic three-masted Belem, which set sail from Greece on April 27, the flame was greeted by a fleet of 1,024 boats upon its arrival in Marseille.
Amidst the anticipation of over 150,000 spectators, the flame was ceremoniously brought ashore shortly after 1730 GMT by Florent Manaudou, the esteemed French Olympic swimming champion, in the esteemed presence of President Emmanuel Macron.
The significance of the occasion was not lost on the security forces, as more than 6,000 law enforcement officers, including canine units and elite snipers, were deployed to ensure the safety of the event. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin emphasized the unprecedented security measures, underscoring the commitment to maintaining a secure environment amidst the celebratory atmosphere.
Thierry Reboul, the executive director in charge of ceremonies for Paris 2024, hailed Marseille as the ideal setting to forge lasting memories, with Tony Estanguet, president of the organizing committee, echoing the sentiment, citing the city’s rich historical backdrop dating back to its Greek origins.
Following the ceremonial proceedings, Marseille played host to a vibrant rap concert on a floating stage, captivating an audience of 45,000 spectators against the picturesque backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
The torch relay, set to commence on Thursday, promises to further ignite the spirit of the Games, featuring luminaries such as former Olympique de Marseille footballers Jean-Pierre Papin, Didier Drogba, and Basile Boli, alongside renowned chef Alexandre Mazzia among the torchbearers. More than 10,000 individuals are slated to participate in the relay, culminating in the flame’s arrival in Paris, where it will find its temporary abode near the Louvre in the Jardin des Tuileries.
As the torch embarks on its journey through over 450 French towns and cities, security remains paramount, with a dedicated contingent of around 200 security personnel, including anti-terror SWAT teams and anti-drone operatives, ensuring its safe passage.
The Paris 2024 Olympics promise a spectacle of unparalleled proportions, with sporting events set to unfold in temporary venues across the City of Light, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Invalides. A departure from tradition awaits, as the opening ceremony is poised to take place on the river Seine, a nod to innovation and modernity.
With the infrastructure nearing completion and a commitment to sustainability evident through minimal new constructions, the stage is set for a truly remarkable Olympic extravaganza, reminiscent of the ancient Games where a sacred flame burned bright throughout the festivities.
Mark your calendars as the Paris Olympics commence from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympics from August 28 to September 8, promising moments of triumph, unity, and inspiration on a global stage.