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Paris Olympics 2024: Spectacular Farewell

General Report November 12, 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Summary
  2. Ceremony Overview
  3. Key Highlights
  4. The Handover Ceremony
  5. Musical Performances
  6. Special Moments
  7. Ceremony Conclusion
  8. Conclusion

1. Summary

  • Amid the grandeur of the Stade de France, the 2024 Paris Olympics came to a ceremonious close on August 11, 2024, marking a festive culmination of athletic excellence and cultural exchange. The highlight of the evening was the symbolic handover of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Games, facilitated by Simone Biles and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. Spectacular performances by artists like Billie Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and H.E.R. captured the audience’s imagination, blending global and local cultures. The deeply moving ceremony underscored the ideals of sportsmanship and unity by celebrating athletes' accomplishments and featuring significant cultural tributes to the host city, Paris, through performances that showcased French heritage.

2. Ceremony Overview

  • 2-1. Date and Venue of the Closing Ceremony

  • The closing ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics took place on August 11, 2024, at the Stade de France in Paris. The event started at 21:00 CEST and concluded shortly after midnight.

  • 2-2. Attendance and Participation

  • Approximately 70,000 spectators attended the closing ceremony, along with about 9,000 athletes who participated in the Games. The ceremony featured flag bearers from each of the 205 delegations, highlighting the spirit of unity among participating nations.

3. Key Highlights

  • 3-1. Final Medal Count

  • The final medal count of the 2024 Olympics concluded with the United States finishing with the most medals, totaling 126. The U.S. also secured the highest number of gold medals, tying with China at 40 golds. This data illustrates the competitive success of Team USA during these Games.

  • 3-2. Notable Performances

  • The closing ceremony featured several remarkable performances that captivated the audience. Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers were highlights during the event, delivering exciting renditions of their popular songs. Notably, Tom Cruise made a thrilling appearance where he rappelled into the stadium, receiving the Olympic flag from Simone Biles before speeding off on a motorcycle. Furthermore, French singer Yseult closed the ceremony with a stunning performance of 'My Way,' complemented by an impressive fireworks display.

  • 3-3. Cultural Tributes to Host City

  • Cultural tributes during the closing ceremony highlighted the essence of France and its rich heritage. The first half of the ceremony presented acts celebrating French culture, including music and dance performances. The ceremony began with a dramatic interpretative dance symbolizing diversity and solidarity, followed by performances from local artists like the indie rock band Phoenix. The transition to Los Angeles was underscored by the Olympic flag handover from Paris to LA, emphasized by speeches from officials and an emotional send-off from the Paris 2024 president, expressing gratitude for the nearly decade-long preparation for the Games.

4. The Handover Ceremony

  • 4-1. Olympic Flag Transfer

  • The Olympic flag was officially handed over during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The ceremonial transfer symbolized the transition of host cities from Paris to Los Angeles, which will host the 2028 Games. The flag was taken by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass from Simone Biles and was held as H.E.R. performed the U.S. national anthem. This moment showcased the historic exchange between the first female mayors of both cities.

  • 4-2. Role of Simone Biles and Los Angeles Mayor

  • Simone Biles played a significant role in the handover ceremony as she officially received the Olympic flag from the Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo before passing it to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. This marked the first time in Olympic history that the flag exchange occurred between two female mayors, highlighting a moment of empowerment for women leaders. Mayor Bass emphasized the significance of this moment, stating the importance of sending a message to girls around the world that they can aspire to leadership roles.

  • 4-3. Tom Cruise's Stunt

  • In a dramatic show of Hollywood showmanship, actor Tom Cruise made a memorable entrance during the closing ceremony. He descended from the top of the Stade de France while the "Mission Impossible" theme song played, creating a spectacle for the audience. After reaching the ground, he took the Olympic flag from Biles, attached it to a motorcycle, and proceeded to bike out of the arena. Cruise's thrilling act involved him driving into a plane and jumping out over Los Angeles, symbolizing the Olympic flag's journey to its next host city.

5. Musical Performances

  • 5-1. Performers at the Closing Ceremony

  • The 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony featured a variety of prominent artists and entertainers. Notably, H.E.R. performed the American national anthem during the ceremony. Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers were also among the musical acts that captivated the audience at Stade de France. Additionally, the performances included those by Zaho de Sagazan and the Golden Voyager. These artists contributed significantly to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.

  • 5-2. Impact of Performances on Audience

  • The musical performances during the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics had a profound impact on the audience, including athletes, officials, and spectators. The emotional rendition of the national anthem by H.E.R. was a particularly moving moment, creating a sense of unity and national pride. The lively performances by Billie Eilish and the Red Hot Chili Peppers further energized the crowd, enhancing the celebratory nature of the event. Overall, the performances were designed to leave a lasting impression on those present and were well-received by the audience.

  • 5-3. Significance of Musical Choices

  • The choice of musical performances for the closing ceremony was significant in capturing the spirit of the Games. By featuring both renowned international artists and local French talent, the ceremony highlighted global cultural exchange. The performances aimed to reflect the values of the Olympics, such as unity and diversity. The participation of high-profile artists contributed to a broader international appeal, ensuring that the ceremony resonated with global audiences and showcased the vibrancy of the host nation.

6. Special Moments

  • 6-1. Women’s Marathon Medal Ceremony

  • The 2024 Paris Olympics closing ceremony uniquely featured the medal ceremony for the women's marathon, a historical first for the Games. Medals were awarded during the closing event, highlighting the Olympics' commitment to gender parity in sports. Sifan Hassan, who represented the Netherlands, was awarded the gold medal, reflecting a significant achievement and a moment of pride within the event.

  • 6-2. Flag Bearers and Their Significance

  • The ceremony included an impressive display of flag bearers from each participating nation, symbolizing unity and diversity among the competing countries. Flag bearers entered the Stade de France representing 205 nations, creating a vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. The procession concluded with the Olympic flag being ceremonially passed from Paris to Los Angeles, and notable flag bearers included Manu Bhaker and Sreejesh from India, who were celebrated for their roles in this historic event.

  • 6-3. Memorable Audience Interactions

  • Audience participation was a key feature of the closing ceremony, enhancing the overall experience for the attendees. The event kicked off with a heartfelt performance of 'Sous le ciel de Paris' by Zaho de Sagazan, encouraging the crowd to engage. Additionally, a karaoke segment featuring Joe Dassin's 'Les Champs-Elysées' allowed the audience to sing along, contributing to a vibrant and interactive atmosphere. Athletes also engaged with the audience during the performances, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebration.

7. Ceremony Conclusion

  • 7-1. Final Remarks by IOC President

  • During the closing ceremony held on August 11, 2024, at the Stade de France, IOC President Thomas Bach delivered heartfelt remarks commending the athletes for their outstanding performances at what he referred to as the 'Seine-sational Games.' He expressed gratitude for their fierce competition and the excitement generated worldwide, emphasizing the greatness of human capability.

  • 7-2. Extinguishing of the Olympic Flame

  • In a poignant moment, the Olympic flame was extinguished, symbolizing the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Olympics. This act was conducted by French swimmer Léon Marchand, accompanied by athletes representing various continents and the Refugee Olympic Team, who helped him carry the lantern used to transport the flame to the event.

  • 7-3. Significance of the Ceremony’s Closure

  • The closing ceremony not only marked the end of the Olympic Games but also reflected on a rich tradition of cultural exchange. The transition of the Olympic flag from Paris to Los Angeles was a key highlight, emphasizing the unity within the Olympic movement. The ceremony was filled with performances that showcased French culture and heralded the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, serving as an emotional farewell from Paris.

Conclusion

  • The closing ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics was a masterful blend of festivity, symbolism, and unity. Key figures like Simone Biles and Tom Cruise participated in the enduring acts of the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of transitions—both in the leadership of the Games and the showcasing of sports as a universal language. The significance of the Olympic flag handover to Los Angeles by Biles, amidst historic performances, signaled not only an end but also a new beginning with the promise of the next Olympic spectacle. Despite the absence of a detailed exploration of socio-political themes within the ceremony, the narrative centered on cultural richness and unity, offering a template for future ceremonies. The occasion highlighted the vibrant celebration of human capability through sports, with performances and cultural exchanges that are likely to be remembered for their creativity and emotional depth. As the flame was extinguished, the promise of Los Angeles 2028 lingered, evoking anticipated excitement for what lies ahead, ensuring that the Olympic spirit continues to thrive.

Glossary

  • Simone Biles [Athlete]: Simone Biles is an American gymnast and one of the most decorated gymnasts in Olympic history. During the 2024 Paris Olympics, she played a significant role in the closing ceremony by passing the Olympic flag to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, symbolizing the transition to the next Olympic Games in 2028.
  • Tom Cruise [Actor]: Tom Cruise is a well-known American actor and producer. His participation in the closing ceremony included a dramatic stunt where he rappelled into the Stade de France and famously rode a motorcycle to symbolize the handover of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles.
  • H.E.R. [Musician]: H.E.R. is an acclaimed American singer and songwriter. She performed the national anthem at the closing ceremony, adding a poignant moment to the event as it transitioned from Paris to Los Angeles.

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