Torchbearers in Marseille ignite the Olympic flame’s journey through France | Lifestyle

The Olympic flame made its grand entrance into Marseille, France, on a majestic three-mast ship, sparking joy and excitement among the city’s residents. The torchbearers, carrying the iconic flame, embarked on a historic 11-week journey across the country, passing through more than 450 towns before reaching the Games’ opening ceremony in Paris on July 26.

Former soccer player Basile Boli, a Marseille team legend from the 1990s, kicked off the relay from the Notre Dame de la Garde basilica, overlooking the city and the Mediterranean. Boli expressed his pride in being part of the Olympic tradition, emphasizing the special fervor and symbolism of the Olympic flame in uniting people through sport.

Basketball star Tony Parker also joined the relay, describing it as a great honor. The torchbearers were greeted by enthusiastic crowds along the route, with swimmers and sunbathers on the beach cheering them on as they passed by. The sense of celebration and anticipation for the upcoming Games was palpable in Marseille, with residents and visitors alike expressing their excitement for the journey ahead.

The torchbearers selected for the day included a diverse group of individuals, ranging from a fencing champion to a Michelin-starred chef, highlighting the spirit of unity and diversity in the Olympic movement. Paris Olympics organizing committee president Tony Estanguet encouraged everyone to join in the celebration and share the moment with millions of people across the country.

The relay continued throughout the day, with participants running past iconic landmarks in Marseille, culminating in the torch’s arrival at the Stade Vélodrome, home to the city’s passionate soccer fans. The day’s festivities concluded with former Marseille star player Didier Drogba lighting the Olympic cauldron outside the stadium, symbolizing the official start of the Olympic journey in Marseille.

Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra expressed her pride in showcasing France’s capabilities and bringing happiness to people around the world through the Games. The inclusion of Ukrainian gymnast Mariia Vysochanska in the relay was a gesture of solidarity with Ukraine and a tribute to Europe Day, emphasizing the values of unity and hope in the face of adversity.

The city of Marseille embraced the flame’s arrival with great fanfare, drawing a crowd of over 230,000 people to the Old Port for the welcoming ceremony. As one of the host cities for the sailing competition and soccer matches during the Games, Marseille is set to play a significant role in the Olympic festivities, further igniting the spirit of competition and camaraderie among athletes and spectators.

The Olympic flame’s journey through Marseille symbolizes the power of sport to unite people from different backgrounds and cultures, fostering a sense of pride and joy in the shared pursuit of excellence. As the torch continues its voyage across France, it carries with it the hopes and dreams of athletes and fans alike, inspiring a legacy of peace, unity, and friendship through the universal language of sport.