Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
The Olympic torch relay for the Paris 2024 Games commenced in Marseille, France, marking the beginning of its journey across the country.
Marseille, renowned for its vibrant sports culture, witnessed football legend Basile Boli taking the flame in front of the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica before it passed through several sports stars on its way to the Stade Velodrome.
Among the 200 torchbearers in Marseille were former NBA star Tony Parker and skier Cyprien Sarrazin, symbolizing the diverse participation in the relay.
The relay showcased solidarity with Ukraine, with Ukrainian gymnast Mariia Vysochanska leading the collective relay of 28 athletes representing each European Union country.
Notable football figures, including Jean-Pierre Papin and Didier Drogba, contributed to the relay, reflecting the strong football element in the event.
The day concluded at Marseille's Stade Velodrome, set to host Olympic football matches, where Drogba lit the Games' cauldron, symbolizing the torch's arrival at its first major venue.
The relay posed a security test for organizers, with tight security measures in place, involving around 6,000 security personnel to ensure safety throughout the event.
The Olympic flame arrived in Marseille aboard the Belem, a 19th-century sailing ship, amidst a celebratory atmosphere with displays by the Patrouille de France and fireworks.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the Olympics as a moment of unity for the nation, highlighting the significance of the event in bringing people together amid security challenges and the ongoing pandemic.