Paris Paralympics Opening Ceremony Takes Place

The Paris Paralympics 2024 is set to kick off with an innovative opening ceremony that will take place outside of a stadium, featuring athletes parading down the Champs-Elysées to Place de la Concorde. Over 4,000 athletes with various disabilities will compete in 22 sports over 11 days, with the first medals awarded in taekwondo, table tennis, and track cycling. Artistic director Thomas Jolly promises a spectacular show with unprecedented performances aimed at showcasing the athletes' abilities and values. More than 2 million tickets have already been sold, and the event is expected to draw large crowds, a significant change from the empty venues seen at the Tokyo Paralympics. International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons emphasizes the importance of this atmosphere for the athletes, enhancing the transformational nature of the event. The opening ceremony is scheduled for August 28, 2024, at 11:30 PM IST.