Tonight, Paris is set to bid farewell to one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year with a closing ceremony that promises to be an unforgettable spectacle. Held at the Stade de France, the gala will mark the end of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with an electrifying fusion of artistic styles, eras, and intercontinental connections.
How can you watch it from Spain? here
And other countries Click here
“Spectacle” and controversy?
Under the artistic direction of Thomas Joly, the same person behind the Opening Ceremony, the Closing Ceremony will incorporate a theatrical vision while paying tribute to diversity and equality, central themes of these Olympic Games. Despite criticism from ultra-conservative groups for his inclusive performance, Jolly has promised a bold and innovative evening.
The ceremony will begin with the traditional parade of flag bearers from more than 200 countries, alongside the refugee team. The stars of the different national delegations will carry their national flag, in their last big moment on the Olympic stage after the majestic opening on the banks of the Seine.
In addition to the spectacular performances, a step towards history will be taken by awarding medals to the marathon runners, honouring one of the most symbolic competitions in athletics. This recognition of female athletes will come at a Games that have seen the greatest gender parity in their history.
Expectations are high for the night’s musical and artistic acts. French bands Air and Phoenix are almost certain to be on the bill, while speculation is circulating about remote performances from Los Angeles, the city that will take over the Olympic relay. International artists such as Los Angeles native Billie Eilish have been rumored to make an appearance.
The value of diversity: mission impossible?
Amid the buzzing anticipation for the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, speculation is rife that Hollywood icon Tom Cruise will be involved. Known worldwide for his starring roles in the film “Mission: Impossible,” Cruise embodies the adventurous spirit that aligns perfectly with the grand vision of the event. While not officially confirmed, the mere possibility of his participation adds a layer of excitement, blending the worlds of international sport and cinematic glamour, but it is also true that French Minister of Sports Amélie Oudéa-Castéra seems to have confirmed his participation, responding to a question to which she replied:
“He is an extraordinarily popular figure who has made generations of people dream. Let’s not always look for controversy and nitpicking where it doesn’t exist. You will see that this show will once again honor the values that our country has always believed in so strongly and that it perhaps carries better than anyone else in the world. Rest assured, we have an immensely talented team that will once again make France proud and allow us to bring very good messages to the whole world.”
This crossover not only amplifies the global intrigue, but also highlights the ceremony’s goal of blending diverse cultural elements, promising a memorable and star-studded conclusion to the Games.
From the sky of Paris to the Angels*?
Finally, the event will culminate with the symbolic handover of the Olympic flag by the Mayor of Paris to her counterpart in Los Angeles, a politically and culturally charged event that will bring together world leaders under tight security.
With favourable weather forecasts, Paris 2024 concludes a cycle of sporting and cultural celebrations that have captured the imagination of the global public, marking a resounding success in organisation and execution. The Closing Gala is intended to be the perfect culmination of a Games that have shone on all fronts, leaving a lasting legacy of unity and global celebration.
Originally published in The European Times.
source link eu news
