The 2024 Paris Olympics is set to make history with its unprecedented opening ceremony on July 26, transforming the heart of Paris into an open-air stadium along the Seine River. This marks the first time in Olympic history that the ceremony will take place outside a traditional stadium setting.The spectacle will feature a 6km river parade with nearly 100 boats carrying approximately 10,500 athletes from 206 nations. The procession will pass by iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Grand Palais, before concluding at the Eiffel Tower where the Olympic flame will be lit.Directed by Thomas Jolly, the ceremony promises to be a visual feast, showcasing 3,000 performers including dancers, singers, and animators. While the full list of performers remains a closely guarded secret, there are rumors of appearances by international stars such as Lady Gaga and Céline Dion.The event is expected to draw over 320,000 spectators along the river banks and will be broadcast to an estimated global audience of over 1 billion. To accommodate viewers unable to attend in person, 80 giant screens will be set up around Paris.Security measures for the ceremony are extensive, with 40,000 security personnel deployed. However, concerns have been raised, including a warning from Israel about a potential terrorist threat targeting their delegation.Despite the excitement surrounding the event, there are mixed feelings among Parisians. A recent survey showed that while many are enthusiastic, 36% are indifferent, 26% are concerned, and 5% are angry about the Olympics.The opening ceremony marks the beginning of the Olympic Games, which will feature 329 medal events across 32 sports, including four new additions: surfing, climbing, skateboarding, and breaking. The games will be held at 35 venues across Paris and are set to continue the Olympic tradition of bringing together athletes from around the world in a celebration of sport and unity.
Key points
- The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony will be held on the Seine River, a first in Olympic history.
- The ceremony will feature a 6km river parade with nearly 100 boats carrying about 10,500 athletes from 206 nations.
- Extensive security measures are in place, with 40,000 personnel deployed, amid concerns including a potential terrorist threat.
- The ceremony is expected to draw over 320,000 spectators and be watched by over 1 billion people worldwide.
Contradictions👾There are varying reports on the number of spectators expected, with estimates ranging from 320,000 to 600,000.
👾The number of athletes participating in the parade is reported differently across sources, with figures ranging from 7,000 to 10,500.
