The Olympic flame arrived in Paris on Friday, arriving aboard a diesel-powered tugboat as it was held aloft by a torchbearer in white attire.
The flame’s journey, marked by a notable appearance from US rapper Snoop Dogg, crossed under the Peripherique motorway in its 68th stage since its arrival in Marseille on May 8, officially dubbed the “Epilogue.”
Earlier stages of the relay included stops in Paris on July 14, Bastille Day, and July 15, before the torch circled the suburbs and began its final leg in Saint-Denis on Friday.
The morning’s events featured a visit to the athletes’ village, where International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon took turns carrying the torch.
Athletes from around the world captured the moment with their phones, expressing their excitement.
“It’s a moment that gives you goosebumps; it’s beautiful to see,” said Judith Vandermeiren, a Belgian field hockey player.
The torch then proceeded through Saint-Denis, where local rapper MC Solaar took his turn, and made a notable stop at the Stade de France with Snoop Dogg.
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From there, it journeyed down the Canal Saint-Denis, passed to a 17-year-old local student, and continued aboard canal boats through industrial and residential areas of Paris, accompanied by a mix of spectators, security, officials, and even costumed canoeists.
“It doesn’t happen very often. It’s exceptional,” remarked Nathalie, a resident of Aubervilliers, as she awaited the flame on a bridge.
The relay toured the Parc de la Villette, showcasing various international ‘clubhouses,’ including a prominent French setup in the Grande Halle, a Brazilian display in a circus tent, and Mongolian yurts. The torch’s journey continued along the Canal de l’Ourcq towards the Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine.