A Historic Arrival: Olympic Flame Docks at Marseille
The journey of the Olympic flame continued as it made a spectacular entrance into Marseille, docking just outside the Old Port under heightened security measures. The flame’s arrival on Wednesday marked a significant milestone in the lead-up to the highly anticipated Paris 2024 Games Opening Ceremony, now just 79 days away.
The historic three-masted Belem, which set sail from Greece on April 27th, carried the flame after its traditional lighting in Ancient Olympia. The ship’s arrival was a grand spectacle, with a fleet of 1,024 boats gathered to welcome it. Crowds are expected to swell to over 150,000 people who will witness the ceremonial handover of the flame after a six-hour parade.
Ensuring the safety of this momentous event, approximately 6,000 law enforcement officers have been deployed, including police canine units and elite forces snipers. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin emphasized the unprecedented level of security, ensuring that while life in Marseille continues, it does so under “great security conditions.”
Paris 2024 executive director Thierry Reboul and organizing committee president Tony Estanguet both expressed their delight at Marseille being chosen for this ceremonial event. Estanguet highlighted the city’s historical connection to Greece as a foundational reason for its selection.
The festivities will continue with a free rap concert on a floating stage, set to entertain 45,000 spectators. Local retiree and boat owner Henri Gerente expressed his pride to Reuters, recognizing the global attention and economic boost such an event will bring to Marseille.
As the Old Port basked in tranquility with the Mediterranean sea shimmering in the background, preparations were underway for the next phase of the flame’s journey. Starting Thursday, notable figures including former Olympique de Marseille soccer stars and a three-star chef will be among the torchbearers. The relay will involve more than 10,000 participants before the flame finally reaches Paris, where it will be displayed near the Louvre in the Jardin des Tuileries.
The eyes of the world will turn to the River Seine on July 26, when the Olympic Opening Ceremony unfolds in a display of international unity and celebration.
