Olympic Torch Illuminates France in Anticipation of the Paris Games

If there were any doubts about whether the French public would embrace the Olympics, the turnout in May dispelled them, as over a million spectators watched the Olympic torch light up its path across the country. The torch, having traversed France for nearly a month, is about to depart for the West Indies, serving as a perfect prelude to the Games, which begin with the opening ceremony along the Seine in Paris on July 26.

 

The journey has been marked by breathtaking scenes, from its arrival on the Belem in Marseille on May 8 to Mont Saint Michel in the northwest, without serious incidents so far. Gregory Murac, head of the torch relay for the organizing committee, acknowledged Marseille for generating momentum with an enthusiastic crowd of 200,000 and more than 5.9 million TV viewers watching rapper Jul light up the cauldron. As the torch continued its journey, it attracted nearly 1.2 million spectators, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the Tour de France.

 

Despite the celebratory mood, security concerns have loomed, with 200 police officers accompanying the torch. Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin reported 81 arrests and 145 thwarted disruptions since May 8, including actions by Gaza war protesters and anti-Olympic movements, along with the interception of 30 drones. David Lazarus, mayor of Chambly, noted that the criticisms and protests were typical of the French approach to large events. Nevertheless, the torch’s journey included a red carpet appearance at the Cannes Film Festival and will continue as it sets sail from Brest to Guadeloupe. Olympic Games specialist David Roizen hailed the relay as a popular success, highlighting the substantial resources and local investment contributing to its success.