Source: Paris 2024 Facebook page.

MARSEILLE, FRANCE — The torch relay for the Paris Olympics will start in the southern port of Marseille in April 2024, organisers announced on Friday.

The torch will arrive in Marseille from Greece, the spiritual home of the Olympics, on a three-masted ship.

It will set the tone for a Games whose opening ceremony will be held on the Seine in Paris.

“In the spring of 2024, Marseille will have the honour and good fortune to be the first city to welcome the Olympic flame on French soil,” organisers Paris 2024 said in a statement.

“The Belem, a majestic three-masted ship, will carry the flame across the Mediterranean Sea from Athens to Marseille, two cities closely connected by a shared history.”

The ancient Greek colony of Massalia was founded on the French Mediterranean coast in 600 BC. The settlement would become modern-day Marseille.

Chief organiser Tony Estanguet said Marseille “was a natural and clear choice” to host the arrival of the torch.

Marseille will host sailing events for the Games.

The Paris OIympics take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024.

— AFP

Subscribe
Notify of
1 Comment
Newest
Oldest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
You May Also Like

UN voices ‘concern’ that US tapping its communications

The UN has formally expressed its “concern” to the United States after press reports revealed surveillance of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’s communications

China says to expel Canada’s top diplomat in Shanghai

China has expelled Canada’s consul in Shanghai, Jennifer Lynn Lalonde, in retaliation after Canada announced the expulsion of a Chinese diplomat. The move deepens the diplomatic dispute between the two countries, following allegations of foreign interference and tensions over the arrest of a Huawei executive and the detention of two Canadians in China. The situation adds further strain to already souring relations between Beijing and Ottawa.

Thai PM frontrunner faces election probe

Thailand’s potential prime minister faces a probe that could disqualify him due to ownership of shares in a defunct media company, violating election laws. The investigation, expected to last for an undetermined period, may result in disqualification and a jail term of up to 10 years. The ruling party remains confident and emphasizes the importance of people power and adherence to constitutional principles. The outcome of this investigation will impact the formation of the new government and may lead to further political unrest.

Boat carrying dozens sinks in Bangladesh capital Dhaka

Water bus carrying passengers sank in Bangladesh’s capital. Several missing, four bodies recovered. Accidents blamed on poor maintenance and overcrowding.