Hundreds of French towns and cities have hosted the Olympic flame since the torch relay began on 8 May in Marseille. RFI was in Eaubonne, northwest of Paris to catch the action on 19 July.
From the Louvre Museum to the Eiffel Tower, from Paris' posh districts to working-class neighbourhoods, hundreds of people have carried the Olympic torch through the French capital for two days of celebrations before the Summer Games kick off next Friday 26 July.
Joyful crowds have lined up along the route of the Olympic torch and join in the festivities over the past ten weeks, since the relay reached France in Maresille by ship in May.
“I got super emotional,” BMX world champion Matthias Dandois said after carrying the torch in front of the Eiffel Tower.
”I’m from Paris, and I grew up playing so much sport and watching the Olympics, and it was a dream to be a part of it."
About 10,000 people were chosen to carry the flame across France from Marseille to the opening ceremony on July 26.
Many are athletes. Others were picked because they represent art, culture and gastronomy, volunteer for charities or are deeply involved in community life.
Dressed in white, they run at a slow pace to the cheers of spectators.
The torch will continue its journey in northern France and through the Paris region before heading back to the French capital.
The Olympic cauldron will be lit after the opening ceremony on the River Seine on July 26.
