The Olympic flame continues its journey through Hauts-de-France, marking significant stops in various cities. On Wednesday, July 3, the flame will make its way through Pas de Calais and Lens, hosting the 47th stage of its tour. A total of 114 torchbearers will carry the flame throughout the day, starting from Calais at 8:20 a.m. and making its way to the Grand Théâtre by 9:22 a.m.
The journey will then proceed to Saint-Omer, with a departure from Place du Maréchal-Foch at 9:30 a.m. and an arrival at the Vélodrome Jacques Anquetil stadium by 9:52 a.m. One of the day's highlights will be the crossing of Boulogne-sur-Mer, where the flame will depart from the beach at 10:39 a.m. The French Wrestling Federation will take over the relay, featuring a choreography that blends dance and wrestling.
The flame will pass notable landmarks such as Nausicaá, the largest aquarium in Europe, and the Belfry and Jardin Éphémère. It will reach the Libération stadium at 11:59 a.m. After a brief stop in Berck-sur-Mer, the flame will continue to Arras, making a loop in the city center and arriving at the Grand’Place at 4:35 p.m.
The next destination is Parc Ohain in Maisnil-lès-Ruitz, where free sports initiations will be offered from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The final leg of the journey will take the flame to Liévin’s destination in Lens, passing the Louvre-Lens and the Bollaert-Delelis stadium. The day will conclude with the lighting of the cauldron at the Coliseum, Place Jean-Jaures, at 7:30 p.m.
The previous day, Tuesday, July 2, the Olympic flame resumed its journey in the most populous department in France, starting from Avesnes-sur-Helpe. The torch covered almost the entire department, visiting cities like Dunkirk, Wallers-Arenberg, Cambrai, Roubaix-Tourcoing, Douai, and finishing its journey on the Grande Place in Lille. Notable torchbearers included actor Dany Boon, Miss Nord-Pas de Calais Eva Gilles, and footballer Raphaël Varane.
- In Boulogne-sur-Mer, the Entente Lutte Côte d'Opale, chaired by Lise Legrand, one of the first women to win medals in wrestling at the 2004 Olympic Games, will lead the relay. The choreography will be captained by Régine Le Gleut – Leturcq, who participated in five Olympic Games as a referee.
- In Arras, the flame will pass in front of landmarks such as the town hall, the Notre Dame de l'Assomption and Saint-Vaast cathedral, and the Philippe Rapeneau room. The day will also feature various activities starting from 3:30 p.m. at Place Jean Jaures in Lens.
