- Key facts and figures on the event
The Olympic Games are drawing to a close. With a potential stunt by Tom Cruise (62) and several music acts, the closing ceremony on Sunday (11th August) promises to be as spectacular as the opening show on 26th July. As the sporting event comes to an end in Paris, the athletes will have one last chance to celebrate before the Olympic flame is extinguished.
How the Closing Ceremony Will Unfold
The closing ceremony of the 33rd Olympic Games begins at 9 PM in the Stade de France. The festivities kick off with the entrance of French President Emmanuel Macron (46) and International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach (70). Key elements of the event include the athletes' parade and the handover of the flag to the committee from Los Angeles, which will host the games in 2028.
According to the official Olympic website, the show will feature "over a hundred acrobats, dancers, and circus artists". The performance will be accompanied by an "original soundtrack", with the stadium transforming into a "giant concert hall", organisers have promised. The stage, measuring 2,800 square meters, underscores the magnitude of the event. Like the opening ceremony, the concept is by Thomas Jolly (42). A trailer gives viewers a first glimpse.
Will Tom Cruise Hand Over the Flag?
The artistic stage show is not the only highlight: According to matching media reports, the flag will be handed over by megastar Tom Cruise. The actor is reportedly set to abseil down from the stadium roof, 42 meters high. After this daring maneuver, a recorded video will be shown in which Cruise speeds through Paris on a motorcycle with the flag in his luggage. On his way to Los Angeles, he will then attempt a parachute jump onto the famous Hollywood sign. Finally, he is set to hand over the flag to various athletes.
Musical Acts for the Celebration
The celebration also promises musically. After performances by pop stars Lady Gaga (38) and Céline Dion (56), further internationally known acts are set to liven up the event. According to "Variety" sources, singer Billie Eilish (22), rock band Red Hot Chili Peppers, and rapper Snoop Dogg (52) will perform at the ceremony. Their performances will be partly recorded and partly live.
In addition to the international stars, two French acts are part of the musical line-up. Electronic duo Air and indie-pop band Phoenix are set to perform at the closing ceremony, according to "Variety". This was confirmed to the industry magazine by Thierry Reboul, who is responsible for organising the ceremonies.
Watching on TV and Being There Live
Sports fans can watch the event on ZDF. From 8:15 PM, the channel will broadcast from Paris on TV and via livestream. Those who want to be there in person still have the chance. Ticket prices start at 250 euros, according to the sales platform. The 2022 Olympic Games will officially end at 11:15 PM.
The closing ceremony of the Olympic Games, which promises to be as spectacular as the opening show, is set to commence at 9 PM in the Stade de France. During this event, megastar Tom Cruise is reportedly set to hand over the flag to the committee from Los Angeles in a daring manner, including an abseil down from the stadium roof and a parachute jump onto the Hollywood sign.
As part of the musical acts for the celebration, international stars like Billie Eilish, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Snoop Dogg are set to perform at the closing ceremony, alongside French acts Air and indie-pop band Phoenix.
