Olympic Flame Makes its Way to Paris: Historic Handover Ceremony Held in Athens

Athens, Greece - In a symbolic ceremony steeped in Olympic tradition, Greece officially passed the Olympic torch to the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee on Friday. The handover took place at the Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the very birthplace of the modern Olympic Games in 1896.

This marks the culmination of the 11-day Olympic torch relay program within Greece. The flame will now embark on its next journey, arriving in France for a relay program beginning on May 8th.

The ceremony featured a heartfelt speech by Hellenic Olympic Committee President Spiros Kapralos. He expressed his gratitude to the Greek people for their enthusiastic reception of the torch during its national journey and extended his best wishes to France.

"This unique journey of hope and pride, which has illuminated the whole of Greece, has come to an end," Kapralos stated, according to the official Olympic website. "These 11 days that enthralled our nation and captured the world's attention are just the beginning of a great journey to the next Olympic Games in Paris."

Tony Estanguet, President of the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee, responded with gratitude for the hospitality of Greece in hosting both the flame-lighting ceremony and the handover. He also acknowledged the significant role played by French ice dancing champions Gabriella Papadakis and Beatrice Hayes, who served as "heralds" for the Paris torch relay.

"We have already seen some very powerful images," Estanguet said, "and what a proud and emotional moment it is to officially receive the Olympic Flame! A big thank you also to our champions Papadakis and Hayes for being with us to play this powerful and symbolic role."

With the torch officially passed, the excitement continues to build as the Olympic flame prepares to ignite the spirit of Paris 2024.