Hundreds of athletes, countries from around the world, an Olympic torch…when you think of the Olympic Opening Ceremony, a pretty clear picture is painted in your mind, but this year’s ceremony is set to be different.
The Opening Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is already changing the game. The ceremony, which will take place on Friday, July 26, will mark the first time in the history of the Olympic Summer Games that the opening ceremony will be held outside a stadium.
This outdoor concept is set to make Paris 2024 the largest Opening Ceremony in terms of audience and geographical coverage. Instead of familiar images of athletes marching out along an athletics track, guests and viewers will be treated to a colourful river parade through the heart of the French capital.
The Seine will substitute for the traditional track and the quays will become spectator stands. Almost 100 boats carrying an estimated 10,500 athletes are expected to float along the Seine during the parade.
And did we mention Lady Gaga might be performing?
Whilst at this stage most of the entertainment acts remain under wraps, fans are convinced Lady Gaga will be front and centre after some coy hints.
Rumours first began swirling earlier this month after fans noticed that Thomas Jolly, the artistic director of the opening and closing ceremonies, began following the singer on Instagram.
To add to the mystery, the official Olympics account teased someone disguised in a black hood and chrome accessories on their account, alongside the caption: “You haven’t seen anything yet.”
Lady Gaga, who sang Edith Piaf’s La Vie en Rose in 2018’s A Star is Born was spotted arriving in the French Capital just days ahead of the opening ceremony, further cementing fan theories.
Although we have no official confirmation yet, fans are also expecting French powerhouse singer Celine Dion to also take part in the opening ceremony, which would mark the 56-year-old’s first performance following her hiatus due to her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome.
