Paris, France – French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Friday that France will celebrate its Olympians on the iconic Champs-Élysées Avenue next month.
The event, set for September 14, 2024, will honor the country’s athletes who have made notable achievements at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“September 14, 2024. The Champs Elysees Avenue. Be there to celebrate our athletes,” Macron posted on X, urging the public to join the festivities.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics draw to a close on Sunday, France has secured an impressive tally of medals, placing fourth in the overall rankings.
The nation has claimed 14 gold medals, trailing only the United States, China, and Australia. This remarkable performance has stirred national pride and excitement, with several athletes becoming household names.
Among the standout performers is 22-year-old swimmer Léon Marchand, who has captured the hearts of the French public. Dubbed “Marchand Mania,” his exceptional performance has earned him four individual gold medals.
Marchand’s success in the pool has been a significant contributor to France’s medal count and has sparked a wave of admiration and support across the country.
Another notable French Olympian is judoka Teddy Riner. At 35, Riner has added two gold medals to his illustrious career – one in the Men’s +100kg category and another as part of the mixed team event.
Riner’s achievements have further solidified his status as one of the greatest judokas in history and a cherished figure in French sports.
President Macron has called for an Olympic truce in France during the Games, seeking to momentarily pause the country’s political discord. The truce comes amidst a turbulent political climate, as various parties clash over leadership and governance.
Macron’s centrist alliance faced a setback in the European elections, where the far-right emerged victorious. This led to Macron’s decision to call for snap elections just before the Olympics.
In a dramatic political turn, centre and left-wing parties united against the far-right in the second round of elections. The left-wing alliance ultimately secured the most seats, though it did not achieve a working majority in parliament.
Despite these challenges, Macron has chosen to maintain a relatively low profile during the Games, spending much of his time at his Mediterranean holiday residence.
However, he made a notable exception by attending the event in Paris to witness Riner’s gold medal win on August 2.
The upcoming celebration on the Champs-Élysées promises to be a grand affair, with Parisians and visitors alike expected to line the famed avenue to honor their Olympic heroes.
The event will serve as a unifying moment for the nation, celebrating not only the athletes’ successes but also the spirit of perseverance and dedication that defines the Olympic Games.
As France prepares to pay tribute to its Olympians, the celebration on September 14 will undoubtedly be a highlight, marking a memorable conclusion to the Paris 2024 Olympics and a testament to the enduring strength and unity of the French people.
