The 2024 Paris Olympics came to a spectacular close with a star-studded closing ceremony that took place inside the Stade de France. Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise made a thrilling appearance by abseiling off the roof to collect the Olympic flag for Los Angeles, the host city for the next summer Games in 2028. The ceremony featured performances from musical acts like Snoop Dogg, Billie Eilish, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Dr Dre.
Team GB’s flagbearers for the event were Alex Yee and Bryony Page, who had won gold medals in the men’s triathlon and women’s trampolining disciplines, respectively. The closing ceremony ended with a stunning performance of ‘My Way’ by French singer-songwriter Yseult and a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Parisian sky.
French swimmer Leon Marchand returned to extinguish the Olympic flame, accompanied by other French sports stars and officials. The torch was then passed on to France’s team of Paralympic athletes. Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and Dr Dre also took the stage to perform at the ceremony, followed by a live performance from the Red Hot Chili Peppers at Venice Beach.
Tom Cruise made a grand entrance by abseiling off the Stade de France roof to collect the Olympic flag, which he later rode away with on a motorcycle. The handover of the flag from Paris to Los Angeles was marked by a ceremony where the mayors of the two cities exchanged the flag, accompanied by USA gymnast Simone Biles and R&B singer H.E.R.
The closing ceremony was filled with memorable moments and performances, creating a fitting end to the 2024 Paris Olympics. The event showcased the unity and spirit of the international sporting community as the focus now shifts to the upcoming Games in Los Angeles in 2028. The ceremony, although running longer than expected, left a lasting impression on athletes and spectators alike.
