The 2024 Paris Olympic Games came to a magnificent close with a star-studded ceremony at Stade de France on Sunday. The event was a fitting conclusion to a thrilling international sporting spectacle. As the host city Paris bid adieu to the Games, the anticipation for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles began to build, marked by an unforgettable transition ritual.
Los Angeles Prepares for 2028
With Los Angeles now taking on the mantle of the next host city, the passing of the Olympic flag was nothing short of grandeur. The ceremony showcased a Hollywood flair, blending seamlessly with the Olympic spirit. Renowned actor Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance by descending from the roof into the crowd, gripping the Olympic flag with pride. This breathtaking moment set the tone for the seamless transition to Los Angeles.
The flag handoff involved gymnast Simone Biles, who passed it to Cruise, symbolizing a new chapter in Olympic history. Cruise then embarked on a thrilling adventure, taking the flag on a military cargo plane ride, accompanied by his motorcycle. In a visually stunning montage, Cruise was seen skydiving into Los Angeles, altering the iconic Hollywood sign to feature the Olympic rings.
Historic Los Angeles Venues
The celebration continued at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a venue steeped in Olympic history, having previously hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984. The symbolic connection between past and future added depth to the ceremony, emphasizing Los Angeles' readiness to host another momentous event.
A Cultural Extravaganza
Music played a pivotal role in connecting the cultures of Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton added a dynamic touch by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The Red Hot Chili Peppers electrified the audience with their hit song "Can't Stop," followed by Billie Eilish's riveting performance on an adjacent stage.
Snoop Dogg elevated the festivities with "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre for a powerful rendition of "The Next Episode." The night exploded with color as cannons fired off the Olympic colors against a stunning California beach backdrop.
Paris' Artistic Tribute
Back in Paris, the closing festivities celebrated the host city's unique artistic and cultural heritage. Alain Roche delivered a breathtaking piano performance while suspended in the air, accompanied by the opera singing of Benjamin Bernheim. French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix added to the rich tapestry of performances.
A poignant moment came when French swimmer Leon Marchand carried the torch, symbolizing Olympic legacy, before its ceremonial extinguishing, marking the official end of the 2024 Games. French R&B singer Yseult performed "Comme d'habitude," adding a soulful touch to the ceremony.
Transition to the Paralympic Games
The ceremony also signified Paris' transition from the Olympic Games to the upcoming Paralympic Games. French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont passed a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita, symbolizing the shift to the Paralympic Games scheduled for August 28 to September 8.
United States' Dominance
On the medals front, the United States emerged as a dominant force, amassing a total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China clinched an impressive 40 gold medals each, highlighting their athletic prowess.
Farewell to Paris
The Closing Ceremony culminated in a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid farewell to the Games, passing the torch to Los Angeles, setting the stage for another spectacular chapter in Olympic history.