When Céline Dion sang “L’Hymne à l’amour” in a breathtaking performance on the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the spectacular overture to the XXXIII Olympic Games had reached its climax. Not even the constant rain in Paris could harm the ailing grande dame during her moving performance. Lady Gaga had already provided great elegance with a revue interlude in the shadow of the world-famous Notre Dame Cathedral. The opening ceremony turned into a brightly colored show with fireworks, laser shows and spectacular images along the landmarks of Paris – and also sent a message of peace to the world.
Before that, the approximately 6,800 athletes had presented themselves to the world public in an impressive boat parade on the Seine; basketball star Dennis Schröder and judo world champion Anna-Maria Wagner proudly waved the flag on the German ship.
At 10:54 p.m. Macron declares the games open
At 10:54 p.m., French President Emmanuel Macron declared the games open. IOC President Thomas Bach had previously linked his speech to the hope for a better political situation in the world. “Now we are part of an event that unites the world in peace,” said the 70-year-old. “In a world torn apart by wars and conflicts, thanks to this solidarity we can all come together this evening and unite the athletes of 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC refugee team.”
Source: Stern
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