In a symbolic ceremony at the archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, the flame for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 was ignited. This momentous event, held on Tuesday, 16 April, marked the commencement of the flame’s journey from Greece to Paris, where it will illuminate the Opening Ceremony on 26 July.
Dignitaries including IOC President Thomas Bach and Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet graced the occasion, emphasising the significance of nurturing the Olympic flame and its role in promoting peace and unity through sport.
President Estanguet articulated Paris 2024’s commitment to hosting a spectacular and environmentally responsible Games, aligning with the principles of the Olympic Agenda 2020 to address the challenge of climate change.
President Bach echoed these sentiments, highlighting the transformative power of the Olympic Games in fostering peaceful competition and global solidarity. He emphasised the historic significance of the flame, which carries the Olympic spirit from ancient roots to the modern era.
The ceremonial torch relay commenced with Greek athlete Stefanos Ntouskos, followed by French Olympic medallist Laure Manaudou and Margaritis Schinas, vice-president of the European Commission. This relay, spanning 11 days throughout Greece, will involve over 550 torchbearers before culminating in the handover ceremony at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens.
Reflecting on the rich history of the Olympic torch relay, dating back to its inception in Berlin 1936, the tradition has evolved into a global spectacle. From its humble beginnings with Greek torchbearer Konstantinos Kondylis to the airborne journey of the Helsinki 1952 Torch Relay, the flame has traversed continents, uniting nations in the spirit of Olympism.
As the Olympic flame embarks on its odyssey to Paris, it carries with it the legacy of generations past and the promise of a brighter future. From Olympia’s ancient ruins to the iconic venues of Paris, the journey of the Olympic flame symbolises the enduring spirit of athleticism, camaraderie, and peace that defines the Olympic Games.
Photo Caption: In a symbolic ceremony at the archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, the flame for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 was ignited, and begins its journey to illuminate the Opening Ceremony on 26 July. Image: Olympics
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