The Paris Olympics concluded with a dazzling closing ceremony that rivalled its star-studded opening. Despite the scorching heat contrasting the rainy start, the event delivered a spectacular show with a touch of Hollywood glamour.
The ceremony marked the handover to Los Angeles, host of the 2028 Summer Games, featuring Tom Cruise in true mission impossible style, performing breathtaking stunts. Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers entertained the crowd, while H.E.R. delivered a stirring rendition of the U.S. national anthem. Olympic champions Katie Ledecky and Nick Mead served as U.S. flag bearers.
Artistic director Thomas Jolly and executive director Thierry Reboul orchestrated the event, showcasing French talent through performances by Phoenix, Air, and Belgian singer Angèle, with security paramount following a recent thwarted attack at Taylor Swift’s string of concerts in Vienna. The ceremony saw unprecedented measures, with thousands of police officers, including 2,000 from abroad, safeguarding 70,000 spectators, 8,200 athletes, and 270 artists.
While controversial for some, Jolly’s vision for the ceremony presented an operatic and futuristic spectacle emphasising Olympic values. Echoing the opening ceremony’s themes of love and inclusion, the closing event conveyed a progressive message about global fragility and the importance of preserving shared values.
Watch some of the best moments from the Paris Olympics closing ceremony below.
The ceremony began at the Jardin des Tuileries with French singer Zaho de Sagazan performing Édith Piaf’s “Sous le Ciel de Paris”. Olympic star Léon Marchand then carried the Olympic flame to the Stade de France.
Athletes entered the stadium to French electro music and participated in a karaoke session featuring French and international hits. An acrobatic performance symbolized the Olympic spirit, with performers creating the Olympic rings mid-air.
French bands Phoenix and Air, along with other musicians, delivered energetic performances.
The Olympic flag was handed over to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, with gymnast Simone Biles in attendance. H.E.R. sang the U.S. national anthem as the American flag was raised.
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♬ original sound – EscapeTracks
Probably the coolest part was Tom Cruise. He performed spectacular stunts, including jumping from the stadium roof and a pre-recorded skydive over the Hollywood sign, symbolising the handover to Los Angeles for the 2028 Games.
L.A. artists including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Billie Eilish, and Snoop Dogg performed to welcome the Games to their city.
The ceremony concluded with French singer Yseult’s rendition of “My Way” and a grand fireworks display, bringing the Paris Olympics to a memorable close.
If you missed the closing ceremony, don’t worry, we got you. Watch the closing ceremony below while you have another 4 years before the next Olympics.
