Haitian athletes march proudly during the first Summer Olympics opening ceremony outside a stadium
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For the first time in the history of Olympic Games summer, the opening ceremony took place outside a stadium, offering a unique and memorable spectacle. Haiti was worthily represented by its seven athletes who paraded proudly on the Seine this Friday, July 26 during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Dressed by the famous fashion designer Stella Jean and sporting a design by the painter Philippe Dodard, the Haitian athletes flew the national flag high in a historic moment. Their passage on the Seine, alongside representatives of different countries, was a moment of great pride and emotion for all Haitians.
The athletes paraded on boats, passing some of Paris’ most iconic landmarks, watched in awe by thousands of spectators gathered on stands along the river. Large screens were also set up across the city to allow as many fans as possible to follow the event.
The six-kilometer course, or about 3.7 miles, ended in front of the famous Trocadero, opposite the Eiffel Tower, where the Olympic cauldron was lit, marking the official start of the Games.
The ceremony ended in style with a performance by superstar Celine Dion from the Eiffel Tower. Singing Edith Piaf’s “Hymne à l’amour”, the singer provided a poignant and memorable moment. This concert marked her big return to the stage since announcing her battle with stiff person syndrome.
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