Ancient Olympia, Greece, April 16, 2024: On the eve of 100 days to go, the flame for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 has been lit. It was ignited at the historic birthplace of the Olympic Games in Ancient Olympia in Greece on Tuesday, April 16.
The Olympic flame, embodying peace and hope, will now journey across Greece before coming to France. After arriving in Marseille on May 8, it will travel across the entire country, and some French overseas territories, arriving at the Opening Ceremony in Paris on July 26.
IOC President Thomas Bach highlighted Paris 2024’s dedication to upholding the Olympic values and fostering global unity.
“The Olympic Games are the only event that brings the entire world together in peaceful competition,” he said.
“The Olympic athletes send this powerful message: yes, it is possible to compete fiercely against each other and at the same time live peacefully together under one roof. The athletes will shine and show us what greatness humans are capable of with all their excellence, determination and resilience.”
The IOC President added: “This Olympic flame will carry this Olympic spirit from here, our ancient roots, through all of France and finally to Paris – making the City of Light shine even brighter.”
Paris 2024 Organising Committee President Tony Estanguet commented: “France is ready to welcome the Olympic Games, a hundred years after the last summer edition on our soil.
“It is with great pride and honour that we will be hosting the Olympic Games in the country of their founder, Pierre de Coubertin, where we keep a very strong and special link with Olympism. After the first participation of women in the Games at Paris 1900 and the creation of the first Athletes' Village for Paris 1924, we are ready to write a new chapter in the great Olympic history with the third Games in Paris, France.”
The lighting ceremony, held at the Temple of Hera, paid homage to the Olympic Games' Greek heritage, reinforcing the profound link between ancient traditions and the modern Games. The flame was kindled by the high priestess and, along with an olive branch symbolising peace, was passed to the first torchbearer.
This honour was given to Greek rower, Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medallist Stefanos Douskos, who then passed it on to Laure Manaudou, the first French torchbearer on Greek soil and an Olympic champion at Athens 2004.