Will the opening of the olympic games feature a historic duo?
With the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony hours away, speculation is rife about who will light the Olympic cauldron, and Marie-José Pérec, a three-time Olympic champion, is at the center of these rumors. Speaking on RTL, Pérec shared her excitement and anticipation, although she remains uncertain about her role in the ceremony.
Read more:
- Stunning upsets and intense matches kick off Olympic men’ soccer
- Rising star Jordan Chiles heads to Paris Olympics with celebrity fans cheering her on
Awaiting the call
Despite being a favorite to perform the prestigious task of lighting the cauldron, Pérec has not yet received confirmation. She expressed her anxiety and excitement, likening the suspense to her competitive days. “It feels like I’m back in competition,” she stated, noting her sleepless nights filled with anticipation.
Potential historical pairing
The possibility of lighting the cauldron with soccer legend Zinedine Zidane has stirred significant excitement. “If I were with Zidane, it would be incredible. I would be the happiest person on earth,” Pérec remarked. This duo would not only symbolize French athletic excellence but also provide a momentous start to the Games.
Alternatives and speculations
While the pairing with Zidane is favored by fans and Pérec herself, she mentioned that sharing this moment with Teddy Riner, another iconic French athlete, would be equally gratifying. The final decision remains tightly under wraps, with Tony Estanguet, the organizer, claiming he is the sole keeper of this secret.
An evening of speculation
At a recent gathering at the Louvre, the buzz was all about Pérec’s potential involvement. She humorously recounted her attempts to glean some insight from Estanguet, only to be met with smiles and no confirmation. “I thought he would hint at something for tomorrow, but no, just smiles,” she shared.
Pérec’s Olympic legacy
Marie-José Pérec is no stranger to Olympic glory, having won the 400m at both the Barcelona 1992 and Atlanta 1996 Olympics, along with a 200m gold in 1996. Her role as an ambassador for the Olympic flame highlights her lasting impact on the world of athletics and her symbolic significance for the Paris Olympics.
A night of anticipation
As the opening ceremony approaches, the world waits eagerly to see if Pérec will indeed be the one to light the cauldron, marking the start of what promises to be an unforgettable Olympic Games. Whether with Zidane, Riner, or alone, her involvement would undoubtedly be a highlight of the Paris Olympics.
Andy Murray to bid farewell at Paris 2024: An olympic curtain call
This article explores the swirling rumors and excitement surrounding Marie-José Pérec’s potential role in lighting the Olympic cauldron at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With her significant athletic legacy and the possibility of joining forces with other French sports legends like Zinedine Zidane, the anticipation builds for what could be a historic Olympic moment.
