The Olympic Spirit Comes Alive in Paris: Celebrating Unity, Diversity, and Excellence at the Paris 2024 Games

Your Excellencies,

Dear Olympic friends,

The wait is over, and the excitement is palpable as we gather to witness the grandeur of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. With immense gratitude, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our gracious French hosts, whose warm welcome has set the stage for a spectacular event. The Olympic flame illuminates Paris and all of France, making them shine even brighter.

We owe our deepest appreciation to our French friends, especially the President of the French Republic. Our gratitude extends to the public authorities at all levels and the Paris 2024 Organising Committee, led by the esteemed Olympian Tony Estanguet. Together, you have transformed the Olympic Agenda reforms into reality, delivering Games that are more inclusive, urban, youthful, and sustainable. Notably, these Games mark a historic achievement with full gender parity on the field of play.

A special acknowledgment is due to the thousands of volunteers whose unwavering commitment and radiant smiles deepen our affection for Paris and France. Our appreciation also extends to the Organising Committee team, public services, and everyone contributing to making these Olympic Games an unforgettable experience.

What better setting than Paris to share the magic of the Olympic Games with the world? Paris, the birthplace of our founder, Pierre de Coubertin, the City of Light and Love, where the modern Olympic Games were conceived. Thank you, France, for this enchanting welcome.

Dear fellow athletes,

This moment represents the pinnacle of your Olympic journey. In Paris, you transition from athletes to Olympians. Stepping into the Olympic Village, you join a legacy that connects generations, realizing that you are part of something far greater than yourself—a global event uniting the world in peace.

In our Olympic world, distinctions of “global south” or “global north” dissolve. We adhere to the same rules and embrace each other with respect and belonging. As Olympians, we support one another, not just with respect but with solidarity. Many of you have experienced and benefitted from Olympic solidarity on your journey to becoming Olympians. This solidarity is made possible by the generous support of our Media Rights Holders and TOP Partners, whom we collectively thank, along with everyone who has supported you.

In a world often divided by wars and conflicts, this solidarity allows us to unite tonight, bringing together athletes from all 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team.

Welcome, the world’s finest athletes—welcome, Olympians!

Some may label us in the Olympic world as dreamers, but we are not alone. Our dream becomes reality tonight, showcasing the greatness of humanity through Olympians from around the globe.

I invite everyone to dream with us. Let the Olympic athletes inspire you with the joy only sport can offer. Let us celebrate the Olympic spirit of living peacefully, as one united humanity, embracing our diversity.

With my heart full of emotions, I invite the world to celebrate this joy of sport alongside all the athletes. Let us have faith in the future and together celebrate the best of our shared humanity.

Long live the Olympic Games! Long live France!

Now, with great honor, I invite the President of the French Republic, Mr. Emmanuel Macron, to declare open the Games of the 33rd Olympiad Paris 2024.

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