The arrival of the Olympic torch in Marseille marks the official start of the torch relay for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Amidst high security and excitement, the three-mast ship Belem docked in the Old Port, carrying the flame from Greece.
The southern French city of Marseille erupted in excitement as the majestic three-mast ship Belem sailed into the Old Port, carrying the Olympic torch from Greece. Accompanied by over a thousand boats, the Belem paraded around the Bay of Marseille, its sails billowing in the Mediterranean breeze.
As the ship docked on a pontoon designed like an athletics track, the crowd erupted in cheers. The welcoming ceremony was a spectacle of colors and sounds, featuring a demonstration by the jets of the Patrouille de France, the acrobatic team of the French air force.
Paris 2024 Olympics Organizing Committee President Tony Estanguet hailed the event as a "fantastic celebration." Estanguet, a former Olympic canoeing star, emphasized the importance of the torch relay and chose Marseille as the starting point due to its passion for sports.
The arrival of the torch marked the culmination of months of preparation and heightened security measures. About 8,000 police officers and thousands of firefighters, bomb disposal squads, maritime police, and anti-drone teams were deployed around Marseille to ensure the safety of visitors and residents.
Along the boardwalk, people beamed with excitement and curiosity, eager to witness the historical moment. Musicians entertained the crowd with Olympic-themed songs, while workers set up the Olympic stage and the pontoon bridge that would carry the flame to France's mainland.
Marseille resident Paul Vuarambon shared his joy and pride in the city's role in the Olympic torch relay. Despite the high security and city-wide overhaul, he said, "People here are pretty happy with the Olympics."
France's Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera stressed the symbolic and practical significance of the event, stating, "We really want to make sure that the beginning of the torch relay here will drive enthusiasm and a sense of pride for French people."
Olympic swimmer Florent Manaudou was chosen as the first flame carrier in France, a moment of great honor for the Marseille native and four-time Olympic medalist. Marseille Mayor Benoît Payan proclaimed, "This is where it all begins," and expressed his confidence that the city's vibrant spirit would ensure a memorable torch relay.
Heavy police and military presence patrolled the city center to maintain order and security. French Interior Ministry spokesperson Camille Chaize assured the public that all necessary measures were in place to respond to potential threats.
The Olympic cauldron will be lit after the Games' opening ceremony on July 26, at a yet-to-be-disclosed location in Paris. The possibilities include iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Gardens. As the Olympic flame continues its journey across France, it will ignite passion and inspiration for the upcoming Games.
