Paris Olympics 2024: Why athletes used boats to come for opening ceremony?

For the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony did not take place in a stadium. Instead, athletes at Paris Olympics 2024 paraded along the iconic River Seine in a stunning display that captivated the world. 

This unique approach saw around 6,800 athletes from various countries travel on more than 90 boats along a six-kilometer route, offering a picturesque view of Paris's landmarks and creating an unforgettable spectacle.

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Paris Olympics 2024: Why athletes came on boats for opening ceremony?

The innovative idea for this river parade was proposed by Tony Estanguet, the chief organizer of the Paris Olympics and a three-time Olympic canoeing champion for France. Inspired by the opening ceremony of the 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, which was held in the streets, Estanguet pitched the concept to France's President Emmanuel Macron. 

The plan aimed to showcase the beauty of Paris and offer a fresh, inclusive experience for both athletes and spectators. Paris 2024 executive director Thierry Reboul also contributed to this vision, drawing inspiration from a walk along the Seine five years ago, which led to the decision to hold the ceremony on the river.

The Indian contingent's participation in this historic river parade was a moment of pride for the nation. Led by flagbearers PV Sindhu and Sharath Kamal, the Indian athletes made a grand entrance, waving to cheering fans and showcasing the vibrant spirit of India's sporting talent. 

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India at Paris Olympics 2024

This marked a significant moment for Indian sports, as both Sindhu and Kamal became the first athletes from their respective disciplines to serve as flagbearers at the Olympics. Their presence underscored the growing prominence of Indian athletes on the global stage, particularly in badminton and table tennis.

With 78 athletes competing across 12 different disciplines, the Indian delegation is poised to make its mark at the Paris Olympics.