The closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games culminated in a spectacular event known as the 'Parade of Champions,' held on the iconic Champs-Élysées. This grand celebration featured the final flight of the Olympic cauldron, which soared into the Parisian sky, marking the conclusion of the Games. The event, attended by thousands, was filled with nostalgia and excitement, as families gathered to witness the celebration of athleticism and unity.
The cauldron, a symbol of the Games, was lit by Olympic champions Teddy Riner and Marie-José Pérec, and later relit during the Paralympic Games by athletes with disabilities. Designed by Mathieu Lehanneur, the cauldron's future remains uncertain, with discussions about its preservation and potential relocation ongoing. The parade showcased not only the athletes but also the volunteers and organizers who made the event possible, highlighting the spirit of community and celebration that defined the Games.
As the parade progressed, spectators cheered for their favorite athletes, including the celebrated swimmer Léon Marchand and Paralympic vice-champion Timothée Adolphe. The atmosphere was electric, with chants and songs echoing down the avenue as the athletes paraded in their white uniforms. The event concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the Marseillaise, celebrating the achievements of French athletes and the unity experienced throughout the Games.
- The 'Parade of Champions' was not just a farewell to the Games but also a celebration of the spirit of sportsmanship and community. Organizers emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of volunteers and officials, making it a holistic tribute to everyone involved in the success of the Games.
- The event was a chance for families, like Laetitia's, to experience the joy of the Olympics one last time. Many attendees expressed their desire to connect with the Games they had missed and felt that this parade provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the athletes and the spirit of competition.
- Despite some logistical hiccups, the parade turned out to be a memorable occasion, filled with joy, pride, and a sense of achievement for the host city and its people.
