Paris 2024 Olympics: A Spectacular Start with a Futuristic Cauldron
A Revolutionary Fuel-Free Flame Lights Up Paris as Marie-José Pérec and Teddy Riner Kick Off the Games in an Unforgettable Opening Ceremony
Marie-José Pérec and Teddy Riner Ignite the Games with a Groundbreaking Fuel-Free Flame, Soaring Above Paris in a Monumental Opening Ceremony
Paris, 26 July 2024 – At precisely 11:24 PM, an extraordinary event marked the beginning of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Renowned athletes Marie-José Pérec and Teddy Riner lit the Olympic Cauldron in a dazzling Opening Ceremony that captured the world’s attention. The ceremony, held at the iconic Jardin des Tuileries, introduced a revolutionary Olympic Cauldron designed by French designer Mathieu Lehanneur.
A Monumental Spectacle
The Paris 2024 Cauldron is a sight to behold. Standing 30 meters high with a 7-meter-diameter ring of fire, it defies traditional designs. The cauldron is a hybrid between a giant ring of fire and a monumental balloon, taking to the skies over Paris. Uniquely, it is powered by a 100% electric flame without fuel, thanks to EDF, making it the first of its kind in Olympic history. This flame, made of water and light, will shine from sunset until 2 AM, floating 60 meters above the ground.
Accessibility for All
In line with the “Games Wide Open” spirit, the cauldron is positioned to be accessible to the public. From Saturday, 27 July, and every day during the Games, up to 10,000 visitors can get close to the cauldron at the Jardin des Tuileries from 11 AM to 7 PM. This installation, in collaboration with the Louvre, ensures that the cauldron remains visible to as many people as possible, aligning with the city’s most beautiful views, including the Louvre Pyramid, the La Concorde obelisk, and the Champs-Elysées.
Sustainable Innovation
EDF, the Premium Partner of Paris 2024, has made history by creating a fuel-free flame. Utilizing a cloud of mist and beams of light, the Olympic Flame will flicker with electricity as its sole source of energy. This sustainable innovation extends to the Olympic venues, powered by 100% renewable electricity produced in France. The cauldron’s design incorporates 40 LED spotlights and 200 high-pressure misting nozzles, ensuring a visible and warm flame 60 meters above the ground.
A Symbolic Torch Relay
The Olympic Cauldron, along with the Torch and the Relay cauldron, was designed by Mathieu Lehanneur for the Olympic Flame’s journey. These objects share a metallic hue, representing the gold, silver, and bronze medals. The lighting of the cauldron by Pérec and Riner concluded the Torch Relay, igniting the excitement for the Games that had been building across France.
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games have begun with a fusion of tradition and innovation, promising an unforgettable experience for all. As the Olympic Flame soars above Paris, it symbolizes the city’s dedication to sustainability, accessibility, and the timeless spirit of the Games.