Summer Games – Paris says goodbye to the Olympics with a big parade – Sport

Paris (dpa) – Paris will bid farewell to the Olympic Games this Saturday with a large parade of French athletes and a show in front of 70,000 spectators. Around 300 French Olympic and Paralympic athletes have already agreed to take part in a “parade of heroes” on the Champs-Élysées, including many of the medal winners, the organizers announced. Volunteers who were present at the Games will also be part of the parade.

Afterwards, the athletes will appear on a huge stage built around the Arc de Triomphe to celebrate their sporting successes once again. The medal winners will then receive an award from France during a festive ceremony.

Show with artists from the Olympic ceremonies

In the evening, a show is planned with a concert that will be broadcast on television. The artists who have performed during the four ceremonies of the Olympic and Paralympic Games will return for a selection of the best performances. A projection on the facade of the Arc de Triomphe is also planned. Spectators can attend the parade and the show for free, but must obtain a ticket in advance.

“The Paris 2024 Games will forever have a special place in our memories,” said President Emmanuel Macron. “On Saturday, the Republic will pay tribute to the exceptional achievements of our athletes during a ceremony to award the Olympic and Paralympic medalists. This afternoon, which I wished for, will be a reflection of our Games in Paris: popular, warm, marked by sharing and the French spirit.”

“We will end the Paris 2024 adventure as beautifully as we began it,” said the Games' chief organiser, Tony Estanguet. “With a celebration in the heart of the city, on the most beautiful avenue in the world, with this incredible crowd of fans who have created an incredible atmosphere all summer long.”

© dpa-infocom, dpa:240911-930-229960/1