The 2024 Paris Olympic Games concluded on a high note with a spectacular and star-studded Closing Ceremony at the Stade de France on Sunday. This event drew the curtain on what has been a memorable and thrilling international sporting festivity, as the world now turns its gaze to Los Angeles, the host city for the 2028 Summer Olympics.
The passing of the Olympic flag was a moment marked by grandeur and a seamless transition, highlighted by a string of dazzling performances and iconic moments. The ceremony was a spectacular fusion of Hollywood and Olympic theatrics, encapsulating the spirit of both Paris and L.A.
Star-Studded Performances
Renowned actor Tom Cruise made a dramatic descent from the roof into the crowd, proudly holding aloft the Olympic flag. This exhilarating moment set the tone for a night filled with unforgettable performances. In a symbolic handoff, gymnast Simone Biles passed the flag to Cruise, marking the transition to the Los Angeles 2028 Games.
In a sequence that thrilled both sports fans and cinema lovers alike, Cruise took the Olympic flag on an adventurous ride. He boarded a military cargo plane with his motorcycle, showcasing his daredevil persona. In an elaborate montage, Cruise was shown skydiving into Los Angeles, where he dramatically transformed the double O's of the Hollywood sign into the bottom of the Olympic rings logo.
The visual spectacle continued at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, an iconic venue that has previously hosted the Games in 1932 and 1984. The ceremony masterfully bridged the cultural energies of Paris and Los Angeles, incorporating music and performances that captivated the global audience.
Music Bridging Continents
American skateboarder Jagger Eaton contributed to the evening's dynamic blend by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach. The atmosphere was ignited by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who performed their hit song "Can't Stop," adding to the electrifying ambiance.
Billie Eilish delivered a riveting performance on an adjacent stage, captivating the audience with her unique style. Snoop Dogg elevated the celebration to another level with "Drop It Like It's Hot," later joined by Dr. Dre as the duo performed "The Next Episode." The night came alive with color cannons firing off the Olympic colors against a picturesque California beach backdrop.
Paris’ Farewell
Back in Paris, the closing festivities were marked by an artistic and cultural homage to the host city. Alain Roche's airborne piano performance and the opera singing of Benjamin Bernheim enriched the ceremony, offering a fitting farewell.
French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix further underscored the celebration with their performances, creating a vivid musical tapestry. The torch, a symbol of Olympic legacy, was carried by star French swimmer Leon Marchand before it was ceremoniously extinguished, signaling the official end of the 2024 Olympic Games.
French R&B singer Yseult also delivered an emotive performance of "Comme d'habitude," adding to the evening's poignancy. The ceremony symbolized Paris' transition from hosting the Olympics to gearing up for the Paralympic Games.
Transition to Paralympic Games
French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont played a significant role in this transition by passing a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. This act elegantly marked the shift to the upcoming Paralympic Games scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8.
The United States emerged as a dominant force in the 2024 Games, amassing a total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China clinched an impressive 40 gold medals each, showcasing their athletic prowess on the world stage.
The Closing Ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France, reinforcing the celebratory spirit. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid farewell to the Games, passing the torch to Los Angeles, a city known for its blend of glamour and sporting excellence.