Follow the opening of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games have already started! This August 28, the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games takes place in France. The Place de la Concorde and the Champs Elysées will host the inauguration which will be the first edition in the city of love.

Paris welcomes Paralympic athletes in emotional opening ceremony

Paris became the epicenter of inclusive sport as it welcomed delegations from around the world at the Paralympic Games welcome ceremony. In front of a happy crowd, the athletes paraded with pride, symbolizing the diversity and spirit of achievement that characterizes this global event.

The delegations from Angola and Saudi Arabia stood out, which, despite having modest teams, received warm applause for their courage and determination. Argentina, meanwhile, stood as the first Latin American nation to make its entrance, a gesture that resonated deeply, recalling the country's pioneering role in the Paralympic movement.

As night fell over the City of Light, Cameroon made its appearance with one of the most numerous and imposing African delegations, underlining the strength and diversity of the competitors. The athletes continue to parade on the emblematic Avenue des Champs-Elysées.

Paris 2024 Paralympic Games are inaugurated

Paris continues to dress up for the opening of the Paralympic Games, marking a historic moment at the iconic Place de la Concorde, with an emotional speech by Tony Estanguet, who stressed the importance of the athletes present: “Tonight, our revolutionaries are you.” Afterwards, Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, underlined the relevance of sport as a global unifier, stating: “Let sport be the glue that holds us together. Let us celebrate difference as a force for good.”

French President Emmanuel Macron had the honor of officially declaring the Paris Paralympic Games open, marking the start of a competition that celebrates self-improvement and talent. A choreographed act followed his words, transforming the square with a combination of music and lights. Angelina Bruno led the act, as dancers on crutches crowded around the Luxor obelisk, finally shedding their crutches, symbolizing liberation and empowerment.

The Paralympic fire is lit

The Paralympic fire has begun its triumphant journey down the iconic Champs Elysees, marking the start of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. In an impressive display of symbolism and tradition, the Paralympic torch led the way, followed by several flames. Maurice Ravel's famous piece “Bolero” resounded in the air, accentuating the moment with its rhythm.

Among the outstanding participants was Oksana Masters, a legendary figure in the world of Paralympics, both in summer and winter, who proudly received the torch relay. This year, the iconic Paralympic fire has acquired a special touch by being mounted on a hot air balloon, ensuring its mobility and visibility throughout the days of competition.

The opening ceremony, full of emotional moments and gestures of unity, concluded in an unforgettable way with a rendition of “Je t'aime moi non plus” by Serge Gainsbourg, leaving the attendees with a sense of joy and fellowship for what promises to be a historic sporting event in the City of Light.