The 70-year-old individual, widely recognized for his daring stunts and acrobatic fight sequences, has been selected to carry the Paralympic flame on Wednesday afternoon in the vibrant city of Paris. This significant moment will take place just hours before the much-anticipated opening ceremony, as confirmed by the organizing committee.
Joining him in this symbolic act will be prominent French actress Elsa Zylberstein and the accomplished dancer/choreographer Benjamin Millepied, both of whom will also participate in the torch relay.
Similar to the spectacle of the Olympic opening ceremony, Wednesday’s event will gracefully unfold beyond the confines of the Stade de France. The parade will traverse the iconic Champs-Elysees, culminating at the illustrious Place de la Concorde in central Paris.
The Paralympic flame, which was ignited on Saturday in Stoke Mandeville, UK, the historical birthplace of the Paralympic Games, made its grand entrance into France via the Channel Tunnel on Sunday. It was carried by Emmanuelle Assmann, a decorated wheelchair fencing medalist. French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, in the presence of Tony Estanguet, head of the organizing committee, welcomed the flame with a profound sentiment, emphasizing the importance of embedding the spirit of sports within people with disabilities.
The flame was planned to embark on its continued journey, where it will be “multiplied” into 12 Paralympic flames. These will be carried by 1,000 torchbearers across approximately 50 towns, forming 12 simultaneous relays. This endeavor is indeed a remarkable feat, symbolizing unity and inclusivity.
