The anticipation is palpable as the world awaits the commencement of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, set to begin tomorrow with a groundbreaking Opening Ceremony on the River Seine. For the first time in Olympic history, the ceremony will not take place inside a stadium but will unfold in full view of the public along the iconic river.
Athletes from around the globe, numbering between 6,000 to 7,000, along with thousands of coaches and delegation members, will grace the Seine aboard 85 barges and boats. This maritime parade symbolizes unity and the flowing exchange of cultures, heralding a new chapter in Olympic traditions.
An estimated 300,000 spectators are expected to line the riverbanks and occupy temporary stands, while an additional 200,000 will watch from nearby apartments, making this one of the most accessible Opening Ceremonies ever.
China’s delegation will be led by two esteemed athletes serving as flagbearers. Table tennis legend Ma Long, making his fourth Olympic appearance, and artistic swimming team captain Feng Yu, competing in her second Games, will proudly carry the flag for China. Their selection reflects China’s strength in both established and emerging sports disciplines.
The innovative approach to the Opening Ceremony not only showcases Paris’s rich cultural heritage but also signifies a commitment to inclusivity and public engagement. As the world tunes in, the 2024 Paris Olympics promises to be a memorable celebration of athletic excellence and international camaraderie.
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2024 Olympic Games set to begin on River Seine in just one day's time
cgtn.com