The mood among the Cuban delegation moments before the parade on the Seine River this Friday during the Olympic Games opening was one of disinterest and lack of enthusiasm, despite an official social media post attempting to portray the opposite. A video published on TikTok by the profile “Cubanos en UK” tried to project a different image, but was quickly debunked by dozens of commenters who saw no joy at all.
“Joy aboard vessel 21 which will parade on the Seine River. They call me #Cuba in #Paris2024. Our lone star flag will be carried by Idalys Ortiz and Julio C. La Cruz,” detailed the official post alongside a video of just over 30 seconds.
In the footage, the flag bearers—Idalys Ortiz and Julio César La Cruz—are seen trying to motivate the team while the song “Me dicen Cuba” by Alexander Abreu plays in the background. Some members half-heartedly sang along and waved small flags without much enthusiasm, surrounded by individuals who didn’t appear to be athletes at all.
Several internet users agreed that the front row was filled with “informers,” those responsible for confiscating passports and ensuring athletes didn’t defect. “The front row represents cholesterol,” joked one user, referring to the unathletic appearance of those who were clearly the security personnel of the group.
Comments like “Joy wouldn’t be the right word”; “They look fed up”; “Some are probably thinking about how to escape… good luck, guys”; “I might be wrong, but there’s no joy in the team. It’s very sad”; and “Everyone’s thinking about how not to return to the dictatorship,” clearly contradicted the triumphalist tone of the original post. One particularly cutting remark stated, “Tremendous joy, yes, my grandmother’s funeral was more animated.”
Cuban Delegation at the Olympics: A Closer Look
Given the apparent discrepancy between the official portrayal and the actual sentiment among the Cuban delegation, here are some questions and answers that delve deeper into the situation.
Why was the Cuban delegation's mood so low before the parade?
The delegation appeared disinterested and unenthusiastic, possibly due to the oppressive political environment in Cuba and the looming presence of security personnel ensuring they didn’t defect.
Who were Idalys Ortiz and Julio C. La Cruz?
Idalys Ortiz and Julio C. La Cruz were the flag bearers for the Cuban delegation during the parade. They are prominent athletes representing Cuba in the Olympics.
What was the reaction on social media to the official portrayal of the Cuban delegation?
Social media users quickly debunked the official portrayal of joy and enthusiasm, noting the lack of genuine happiness and making sarcastic remarks about the presence of security personnel.