Jackie Chan, the iconic Hong Kong-born martial arts actor known for his acrobatic fight scenes and daring stunts, has been named as one of the torchbearers for the upcoming Paralympics in Paris.
The 70-year-old will carry the flame on Wednesday afternoon, just hours before the opening ceremony, marking a significant moment in the lead-up to the Games. Chan’s involvement in the torch relay highlights the global nature of the event, as he joins other notable figures such as French actress Elsa Zylberstein and dancer/choreographer Benjamin Millepied in this symbolic role.
The torch relay will culminate in a grand parade down the Champs-Elysees to the Place de la Concorde in central Paris, departing from the traditional confines of the Stade de France, thereby bringing the celebration into the heart of the city.
The flame itself holds deep historical significance, having been lit on Saturday in Stoke Mandeville, England, the birthplace of the Paralympic Games.
It arrived in France via the Channel Tunnel on Sunday, carried by Emmanuelle Assmann, a wheelchair fencing medalist, who was greeted by French sports minister Amelie Oudea-Castera and Tony Estanguet, head of the organising committee.
Their presence underscored the importance of the event, with Oudea-Castera emphasizing the goal of integrating sport into the lives of people with disabilities, thus reinforcing the Paralympics’ mission to inspire and empower.
Following its arrival, the flame’s journey across France will see it being “multiplied” into 12 Paralympic flames, each representing different regions.
These flames will be carried by 1,000 torchbearers across approximately 50 towns, symbolizing the unity and inclusivity at the heart of the Paralympic movement.
The simultaneous relays across various locations will ensure that the spirit of the Games is spread widely, engaging communities throughout France and further embedding the values of the Paralympics in the public consciousness.
