The flame for the Paris Games was lit in Olympia, Greece — the birthplace of the ancient Olympics — back in April. This symbolic act marked the beginning of a journey that will culminate in the lighting of the cauldron at the opening of the Summer Games.
The flame has been on a remarkable relay, starting with a 3,106-mile journey across Greece over 11 days. The relay concluded at the historic Panathenaic Stadium in Athens, the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896, where the flame was handed over to the Paris Olympic organizers in a ceremonial event.
Since then, the flame has been carried by approximately 10,000 torchbearers, passing from hand to hand on its way to the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony. The flame will continue to burn brightly until the closing ceremony in August, symbolizing the spirit of the Games.
The first runner of the Olympic torch relay was Greek Olympic gold medalist rower Stefanos Ntouskos, who had the honor of carrying the flame on the initial leg of its journey.
Throughout the years, Olympic torch relays have featured numerous adventurous routes. The flame has traveled across the globe, ventured into space, descended underwater, and even conquered the heights of Mount Everest, showcasing the unity and diversity of the Olympic movement.
Following the conclusion of the Summer Games, the flame will also illuminate the Paralympic Games, scheduled from August 28 to September 8. A team of 1,000 torchbearers will carry the flame through 50 towns and cities in France, spreading the message of inclusivity and sporting excellence.
