Paris 2024 Games Torch Relay Ignites Olympic Spirit

The countdown to the 2024 Paris Games officially began as the Olympic flame was ignited in a traditional ceremony in ancient Olympia. The flame will embark on a torch relay journey from Greece to French Polynesia, symbolizing the spirit of the Olympic Games.

After the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic during the Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022 Games, spectators will be able to witness the torch relay events this time. The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou and IOC President Thomas Bach.

The flame was kindled by actresses portraying ancient priestesses using a parabolic mirror at the 2,600-year-old Temple of Hera. American mezzo soprano Joyce DiDonato performed the Olympic anthem, adding to the grandeur of the event.

The torch relay will cover 5,000 kilometers in Greece, with 600 torchbearers carrying the flame through 41 municipalities. The flame will then be handed over to Paris 2024 organizers at the historic Panathenaic Stadium on April 26.

From there, the flame will travel to France aboard the iconic three-masted barque Belem, reaching Marseille on May 8. The torch will then journey through 64 French territories, covering 12,000 kilometers before arriving at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony on July 26.

This symbolic journey of the Olympic flame signifies unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the Games, bringing together nations and athletes in the pursuit of excellence and sportsmanship.