The Olympic torch made its grand entrance in Paris on the prestigious Avenue des Champs-Élysées, a bustling boulevard in the heart of the French capital. Encased in a luxurious Louis Vuitton suitcase, the torch arrived 12 days before the commencement of the Games.
The custom-designed suitcase was unveiled amidst an excited crowd at the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées, where it stood on a pedestal before being opened to reveal the gleaming torch. French soccer legend Thierry Henry, clad in stylish white attire, received the torch to the cheers of spectators.
With cheers echoing through the air, Mr. Henry embarked on a leisurely jog, carrying the illuminated torch towards the nearby Place de la Concorde. The area, like much of Paris, has been transformed to host various Olympic events, including the debut of break dancing, also known as breaking, at the Games.
Having traveled through various regions of France, including Marseille, Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Réunion, the flame has embarked on a diverse and captivating journey before reaching Paris.
Paris Welcomes the Olympic Flame
The torch will spend two days in Paris, weaving its way through the city in the hands of 540 torchbearers. The iconic landmarks of Paris, such as the Sorbonne, the Panthéon, the Louvre, the Place Vendôme, and the Hôtel de Ville, will serve as the backdrop for the torch’s journey.
Accompanied by concerts, dances, and cultural celebrations, the flame’s passage through Paris promises to be a vibrant and unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors alike.
