Paris will host its inaugural Paralympic Games on Wednesday, August 28,kicking off with a dazzling Opening Ceremony in the heart of the French capital.
Lead by Thomas Jolly, the spectacle will “showcase the Paralympic athletes and the values that they embody”, said the Artistic Director for the Ceremonies across the Olympic and Paralympic Games of Paris 2024.
Describing the concept as “first and foremost a magnificent source of inspiration” Jolly promises “performances that have never been seen before” in a “spectacle that will also unite spectators and television audiences worldwide around the unique spirit of the Paralympic Games”.
The ceremony will once again be held outdoors, with athletes marching down the renowned avenue. Additionally, it will culminate in a grand celebration and the official opening of the Paralympic Games at the iconic square.
“What an incredible moment for our athletes, who will be part of a historic Opening Ceremony, on the world’s most famous avenue, surrounded by all the charm of Paris,” enthused Jitske Visser, Paralympic wheelchair basketball medallist, IPC Athletes’ Commission President and competitior at Paris 2024.
“This ceremony at the heart of the city is a strong symbol illustrating our ambition to capitalise on our country hosting its first-ever Paralympic Games to position the issue of inclusion for people with disabilities at the heart of our society,” said Tony Estanguet, Paris 2024 President.
Quick facts about Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony
Notably, the ceremony will include :
- 4,400 athletes
- 184 delegations
- 65,000 spectators
- More than 300 million viewers
- A parade down Champs-Elysées to Place de La Concorde
- Four stages
- Unique artistic performances
The current edition is the first Summer Paralympic Games in France. Moreover, the country previously hosted the Winter Paralympic Games in 1992.
Finally, it is noted that Saudi Arabia will be represented by 9 athletes: Abdul Rahman Al-Qurashi (100m and 400m wheelchair), Hassan Doushi (long jump), Noor Al-Sina’a (100m), Sara Al-Jomaa (shot put). In addition, Ali Al-Nakhli will also participate in the 100m and 200m races.
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Saudi Olympic Games Announces List of its Athletes Participating in Paris 2024
SOPC Celebrates 2024 World Olympic Day with French Ambassador to Saudi Arabia
