On July 26, 2024, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach delivered a stirring address at the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024. The speech, filled with gratitude, hope, and a call for unity, set the tone for what promises to be a groundbreaking edition of the Olympic Games.
Bach began by extending a warm welcome to Paris and France, expressing deep appreciation to the French hosts for their spectacular reception. He specifically thanked French President Emmanuel Macron, the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee led by fellow Olympian Tony Estanguet, and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo for their efforts in bringing the Games to life. The IOC President highlighted the unique aspects of the Paris 2024 Games, describing them as "more inclusive, more urban, younger and more sustainable." He proudly announced that these Olympics would be the first to achieve full gender parity on the field of play, a significant milestone in the history of the Games.
A special mention was made of the thousands of volunteers, whose commitment and smiles, according to Bach, have made the world "fall in love even more with Paris and France." He also acknowledged the tireless work of the Organizing Committee, public services, and all contributors to the Games. He emphasized the symbolic significance of Paris as the host city, calling it the birthplace of Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympic Games. He referred to Paris as both the "City of Light" and the "City of Love," adding a poetic touch to his address.
Turning his attention to the athletes, Bach described their arrival at the Olympic Village as a transformative moment, stating, "You have come to Paris as athletes. Now you are Olympians." He stressed the unifying power of the Olympics, declaring that in the Olympic world, "there is no 'global south' or 'global north'" and that "we all belong." And he acknowledged the challenging global context, noting that the Olympics bring together athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team "in a world torn apart by wars and conflicts." He thanked the Media Rights Holders and TOP Partners for their support in making this Olympic solidarity possible.
Bach's speech took on an inspirational tone as he addressed potential skeptics: "Some may say, we in the Olympic world, we are dreamers. But we are not the only ones." He invited everyone to dream along with the Olympic movement and to be inspired by the joy that sport can bring. The IOC President concluded his address with a powerful call to action, urging the world to "celebrate this joy of sport together with all the athletes" and to "have faith in the future." His final words encapsulated the Olympic spirit: "Together, let us celebrate the best of our shared humanity."
The speech ended with Bach inviting French President Emmanuel Macron to officially declare the Games of the 33rd Olympiad Paris 2024 open, marking the beginning of what promises to be an extraordinary Olympic Games.
IOC
Photo by IOC
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