Paris, September 09, 2024, The Europe Today: The summer sporting extravaganza that began amidst torrential rain on July 26 with a stunning opening ceremony on the Seine River concluded yesterday with the Paralympic Games’ closing ceremony at a rain-soaked Stade de France. This marked the end of a series of back-to-back events that have left an indelible mark on the world of sports, setting a high standard for future host cities. The city of Paris has truly raised the bar, leaving Los Angeles 2028 with an ambitious legacy to follow.
The Stade de France was awash in the blue, white, and red hues of the French national flag as a trumpet player heralded the national anthem, “La Marseillaise.” The atmosphere was further electrified by the sight of Paralympic flagbearers parading into the stadium, accompanied by the iconic strains of “Chariots of Fire” by Vangelis.
Tony Estanguet, the head of the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, delivered a poignant closing speech. “Everyone can see what an inclusive world is like,” Estanguet declared. “Now there is no turning back.”
Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee, lauded the excellence of France as a host. “Paris 2024 has set a benchmark for all future Paralympic Games,” Parsons said. “For a country renowned for its fashion and cuisine, France is now celebrated for its extraordinary fans.”
The ceremony featured a lively breakdancing performance, followed by Tony Award winner Ali Stroker, who delivered a moving rendition of the American national anthem as part of the handoff to Los Angeles. Stroker, known for making history in 2019 as the first wheelchair user to win a Tony Award, was a highlight of the evening. The transition to Los Angeles was further animated by a vibrant showcase at Venice Beach Skate Park, which was transformed into a dynamic stage for skateboarders and wheelchair motocross riders.
The event closed with a high-energy performance by celebrated French electronic music composer Jean-Michel Jarre, who, despite the downpour, spun tunes reminiscent of a Parisian nightclub. Artistic Director Thomas Jolly envisioned the stadium as a vast open-air dance party, a vision realized with performances by over 20 DJs, including Étienne de Crécy, Martin Solveig, and Kavinsky. The celebration, themed “Journey of the Wave,” was a jubilant farewell from the 64,000 spectators and the city of Paris to the more than 4,000 Paralympic athletes.
The 2024 Paris Paralympics has left an enduring legacy of inclusivity and excellence, setting a high bar for future Games and demonstrating the power of sports to unite and inspire.
