The spectacular inauguration of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games took place on Wednesday, as athletes paraded along the iconic Champs-Élysées, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde.
In a historic first, the opening ceremony of the Paralympic Games was held outside of a stadium, mirroring the recent Olympic format. This is also the first time that France is hosting the Summer Paralympic Games.
The event will see approximately 4,400 athletes competing across 22 Paralympic sports, vying for one of the 549 gold medals available in Paris over the next eleven days. This edition of the games has set a record with participation from 168 delegations.
The opening ceremony featured stunning displays, including the French Air Force painting the Parisian sky with the colors of the French flag, and various artistic performances that highlighted the event.
The Canadian delegation caught attention as they marched in the inaugural parade, and Colombia’s team dazzled with their colorful attire. The ceremony took place at the Place de la Concorde, filling the space with smoke reflecting the colors of the French flag.
Christine and the Queens performed during the ceremony, adding to the festive atmosphere, while the Paralympic mascot, Phryge, known for its running prosthesis, entertained the crowd.
Unlike the Olympic Games where the Eiffel Tower was the centerpiece, the Arc de Triomphe served as a magnificent backdrop for the opening.
Paralympic athletes Charles Antoine Kouakou, Fabien Lamirault, Elodie Lorandi, Nantenin Keita, and Alexis Hanquinquant had the honor of lighting the Paralympic flame, which will illuminate the Paris skyline throughout the Games.