France throws one last party for the Paris Olympics

The grand parade celebrating the Olympic and Paralympic Games will take place on the Champs Elysées in Paris, featuring 182 French Olympic representatives, including 78 medallists, and 137 Paralympic participants, with 50 para-athletes who medalled. The event is expected to attract around 70,000 spectators, culminating in a performance on a stage near the Arc de Triomphe. Organizers aim to replicate the excitement of the previous ceremonies, emphasizing surprise, emotion, and community spirit. President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Michel Barnier are set to attend the ceremony, where Macron will honor French Olympians with state decorations. This celebration of national pride comes amid a politically charged atmosphere, as Macron's government faces challenges following inconclusive legislative elections that left no party with a majority. The appointment of Barnier, a conservative figure, has sparked controversy, particularly among left-wing factions that feel marginalized by the president's decisions. The New Popular Front coalition has vowed to protest against the new government, claiming that Macron has ignored the popular vote that favored their alliance. Despite the political tensions, the parade represents a moment of unity and celebration for French sports, showcasing the achievements of athletes and the spirit of the Games. The event is seen as a fitting conclusion to a summer filled with Olympic festivities, aiming to foster a sense of national harmony amidst the ongoing social and political challenges.