Tony Estanguet welcomes the Olympic flame for France in Athens

Tony Estanguet receives, for France, the Olympic flame has Athens

\n\nThe three-time French Olympic champion, Tony Estanguet, had the honor of receiving for France the Olympic flame during a centuries-old ritual that still takes place in the historic city ofAthens.\n\n

A historic ceremony at Athens

\n\nThe event took place in the Panathenaic Stadium ofAthens, an emblematic place of the Olympic Games. There Olympic flame was lit in Olympia, the cradle of the ancient Games, before being transported to Athens, thus marking the start of the torch relay.\n\nHistory repeats itself with each cycle of the Olympic Games, symbolizing peace, unity and friendship between nations. This ceremony always precedes the Olympic Games by several months, and this honor is often conferred on a sporting figure representative of the host country.\n\n

Tony Estanguet, a worthy representative of France

\n\nTony Estanguet, three-time Olympic canoe champion, was the man for the job for France. This eminent French sportsman, respected around the world, is a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), and co-president of the organizing committee for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.\n\nReceive the Olympic flame is a true honor for Estanguet and recognition of his unwavering commitment to sport and the Olympic values.\n\n

The road to Olympic flame to France

\n\nAfter receiving the Olympic flame, a series of relays will take place on Greek soil before the flame enters France. A symbolic journey which will ultimately lead to Paris, the location of the next Olympic Games.\n\nThis event officially marks the countdown to the 2024 Games. We look forward to France dazzling the world with its celebration of the Olympic Games.\n\nThe Olympic Games are a tribute to the power of sport, unity and peace, and with representatives such as Tony Estanguet to carry the Olympic flame, we have every reason to be optimistic. So, ready for Paris 2024? \n\n