Paris transformed into an open-air stadium and theater this Friday to kick off the Paris 2024 Olympics. The opening ceremony, described as ambitious, historic, and spectacular, is a milestone as it is the first to be held outside a stadium.
Historic Ceremony Along the Seine
The inauguration began with speeches by Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, and Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The event was followed by fireworks and smoke in the colors of the French flag.
Instead of the traditional parade inside a sports venue, athletes sailed on 85 boats along the Seine River, passing some of Paris's most iconic landmarks, as detailed on the event's website. This innovative approach not only offers a stunning visual spectacle but also reflects the city's rich history and culture.
Among the athletes, Cuban canoeist Fernando Dayán Jorge was seen on one of the boats. He will compete as part of the Refugee Team, despite demands from the Cuban regime for his immediate expulsion.
A total of 21 Cuban athletes will represent other delegations at the sporting event, a figure that highlights the ongoing exodus of athletes in recent years.
The flag bearer for Cuba during the opening ceremony was boxer Julio César La Cruz, taking over from wrestler Mijaín López, who has held the position in previous editions, as reported by the official newspaper Adelante.
New Sports and Notable Absences
More than 10,500 athletes from 206 countries are expected to participate in the 2024 Olympics, featuring over 300 events across 32 sports, according to Infobae. Among the notable innovations introduced by the IOC for this event is the addition of a new sport and the elimination of two disciplines.
The new addition is breaking, commonly known as breakdance. This urban dance style, associated with hip-hop culture, will make its Olympic debut, aiming to attract a new generation of spectators and participants.
The sports missing from this edition are karate, which debuted at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, and baseball and softball, which also returned in Tokyo 2020 after their last appearance in Beijing 2008.
Key Highlights of Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony
The following questions and answers provide additional context and information about the Paris 2024 Olympics, focusing on its unique aspects and key moments.
Why is the Paris 2024 opening ceremony historic?
The Paris 2024 opening ceremony is historic because it is the first to be held outside a traditional stadium, taking place along the Seine River.
Who were the key speakers at the ceremony?
The key speakers at the ceremony were Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, and Thomas Bach, the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Which new sport is being introduced in Paris 2024?
Breaking, commonly known as breakdance, is the new sport being introduced in the Paris 2024 Olympics.