Paris Olympics Ends With Star-Studded Closing Ceremony, Over To LA Now

The Stade de France transformed into a vibrant concert hall, celebrating the end of the Paris Olympics with a stunning closing ceremony. This event marked the transition to Los Angeles for the next Games.

The nearly four-hour-long opening ceremony on the River Seine had highlighted Paris's architectural beauty and rich heritage.

Photo Credit: PTI

The closing event was equally captivating, featuring Hollywood star Tom Cruise, who added to the evening's excitement.

Hollywood Glamour and Olympic Spirit

Tom Cruise made a grand entrance, descending from the stadium's top to the "Mission Impossible" theme. He interacted with athletes, took the Olympic flag from gymnast Simone Biles, and carried it through Paris streets to a cargo plane bound for Los Angeles. The flag then travelled through LA, carried by track legend Michael Johnson and skateboarding icon Jagger Eaton.

The two-hour show, directed by Thomas Jolly, began with French singer Zaho de Sagazan performing "Sous le ciel de Paris," symbolising Paris globally. Flag-bearers from 205 delegations entered the Stade de France, gathering on a central stage representing a planisphere. Athletes waved flags, took photos, and mingled, embodying the spirit of inclusivity and gender parity.

Celebrating Volunteers and Artistic Performances

The organisers honoured 45,000 volunteers who contributed to the Games' success by placing them alongside athletes. Sound and lights created an ethereal atmosphere as a golden voyager landed. Jolly's use of chiaroscuro lighting left attendees in awe, while musician Clément Mirguet elevated the experience further.

A voice from history reminded everyone of the modern Games' creation in the late 19th century. Five gigantic Olympic rings came to life through a choreographic ballet by Kevin Vivès. Jolly poetically recreated the efforts of those who revived the Games. Alain Roche's levitation sequence at a suspended piano added to the surreal experience.

Handing Over to Los Angeles

International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach praised the Games: "These were sensational Olympic Games from start to finish. The Games showed us what greatness we humans are capable of." He emphasised that while the Olympics can't create peace, they can inspire a culture of peace worldwide.

The Olympic flag was lowered and handed over to Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who then passed it to IOC President Thomas Bach. Bach handed it to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. The handover ceremony featured Emmy Award-winning artist H.E.R., who sang the US national anthem.

Los Angeles Showcases Its Iconic Landmarks

Los Angeles showcased its iconic landmarks during the handover ceremony. Mountain biker Kate Courtney took spectators through downtown LA streets to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a soon-to-be three-time Olympic venue. Track and field gold medallist Michael Johnson gave a glimpse of LA neighbourhoods.

Southern California music icon Snoop Dogg kicked off an evening of fun and music in Los Angeles beachside, joined by Red Hot Chili Peppers and Dr Dre. The emergence of French band Phoenix started a grand party as more artists joined athletes on stage.

India was represented by 117 athletes, including 47 women. Two-time Olympic medallists PR Sreejesh (hockey) and Manu Bhaker (shooting) led India at the Parade of Nations. India concluded its campaign with six medals, including two bronzes won by Manu Bhaker in women's 10m air pistol and mixed team event with Sarabjot Singh.

The closing ceremony was a fitting end to an extraordinary fortnight of sporting excellence in Paris. The baton now passes to Los Angeles, promising another spectacular edition of the Olympic Games in 2028.