The conclusion of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris this weekend will be met with a mixture of trepidation and pride in a nation that is currently grappling with a severe political crisis.
Following months of pessimism and self-doubt in the lead-up to the Olympics’ commencement on July 26, Paris and the nation as a whole embraced the Olympic spirit, championing new national sporting icons.
The Paralympics’ final ceremony on Sunday will conclude six weeks of thrilling competition and nearly flawless organization, which provided a sense of respite from the nation’s divisions and challenges. The Olympic torch will be extinguished for the final time.
“The objective is to conclude with a grand celebration that will prevent the tears of those who may be contemplating the fact that it is all over,” stated chief organizer Tony Estanguet prior to a ceremony that will transform the national stadium into a massive nightclub.
“We’re going to have a party and then on Monday maybe we’ll be disappointed because it really will be all over,” according to him.
Jean-Michel Jarre, the 76-year-old French electronic music pioneer, will supervise a lineup of over 20 top French DJs, including Cassius, the “French touch” legend, and Martin Solveig, who are scheduled to conclude the Games.
“I believe that we will all experience a sense of joy and pride, as well as the sense that something is coming to a close that has allowed us to feel good together and demonstrate to the world how we can enjoy ourselves,” Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo stated to reporters on Friday.
“I will fight against the idea that we have to move on from this enchanted period to resume our lives and our sad passions,” she stated further.
